Jeff Beck’s Guitar Auction Fetches Over £1 Million
The recent auction of Jeff Beck’s guitars and musical equipment, held yesterday at Christie’s in London on 22 January 2025, has garnered an impressive total of over £8.7 million.
Among the standout items was the legendary 1954 Gibson Les Paul “The Oxblood” guitar, which alone fetched more than £1.06 million.
Jeff Beck, who passed away in early 2023, was revered as one of the finest guitarists of his generation, renowned for his ability to seamlessly transition between styles—rock, hard rock, blues, and jazz.
His musical prowess was showcased on the cover of his 1975 solo album Blow by Blow, with the “Oxblood” guitar prominently featured throughout his illustrious career. Christie’s had estimated its value between £350,000 and £500,000, but its final sale well exceeded expectations.
Among other significant items, a 1990 Fender electric guitar—instrument of choice between 1999 and 2014—was sold for £1 million, surpassing its initial valuation of £20,000 to £30,000.
The auction stands as a tribute to Jeff Beck’s enduring legacy as a true icon of rock music. Amelia Walker, Specialist Head in Christie’s iconic private collections, expressed her delight, saying, “We are thrilled with the results of Jeff Beck’s incredible collection, which pay testament to the legacy of a genius – a globally-revered true rock legend."
Sandra Beck, the late musician’s widow, also shared her gratitude: “I am so happy that Jeff’s guitars have been so popular amongst his fans and friends. Thank you so much for your belief in Jeff’s legacy.”
In total, the auction featured 128 items, including guitars, amplifiers, and other equipment used throughout Jeff Beck’s career, which spanned nearly six decades. From his early days with The Yardbirds in 1965 to his final tour in 2022, Beck consistently demonstrated unparalleled mastery and creativity on the guitar.
His contributions earned him eight Grammy awards, solidifying his status as one of the most influential guitarists in the history of rock music.