The Mark Knopfler Guitar Collection sale at Christie's

BGUK_2819316 - 120 guitars from the personal collection of Mark Knopfler go on view to the public from 19 January to 30 January in London, before the auction on 31 January 2024. The collection spans the 50-year career of one of the world’s most influential musicians and chronicles the diverse array of guitars Knopfler has used to write, record and perform an extensive catalogue of compositions for Dire Straits, as well as multiple successful solo albums and film soundtracks. Renowned for his distinct and virtuoso finger-picking style, Knopfler chose each instrument for its individual sound and tone including iconic and world-famous names Fender, Gibson, Gretsch and Martin alongside custom-built models by Rudy Pensa and John Suhr, and bespoke examples crafted by luthiers from across the globe. 25% of the total hammer price will be divided equally and donated to charities that Knopfler has supported for many years: The British Red Cross, Tusk and Brave Hearts of the North East. Estimates range from £300 to £500,000, providing opportunities for fans and collectors to participate at many different levels. Lots photographed: - 1959 Vintage Gibson Les Paul Standard, which he used for performances on the Sailing To Philadelphia Tour in 2001 and the Kill To Get Crimson Tour in 2008 Est: £300,000-500,000 - A Red Schecter Telecaster was purchased by Knopfler in 1984 and used to record the hit Dire Straits song ‘Walk Of Life’ and its accompanying music video Est: £4,000-6,000. - The Gibson J-200 Celebrity was produced in a limited run of just 90 instruments to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the Gibson Company in 1985. Est £5,000- 7,000, It was used for a performance with Chet Atkins, both using their J-200s, of John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ and the 1924 song ‘I’ll See You In My Dreams’ at The Secret Policeman’s Third Ball in aid of Amnesty International at The London Palladium, 26-29 March 1987. - 1988 Pensa-Suhr MK-1, which Knopfler played at the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute concert on 11 June 1988 at Wembley Stadium. Est £6,000 - £8,000 - A Resonator guitar, Dobro Duolian Est val £1,500 - £2,500 - EKO 700 V4 Est val £1,200 - £1,800 - A Balalaika ( Russia circa 2004 ) Est val £300 - £500 - Daddy Mojo ( Montreal, circa 2011 ) Est val £400 - £600 - Gibson Les Paul Standard 'Gold Top' ( Nashville Tennessee 2021 ) Est val £20,000 - £40,000