Author Topic: U Bidding on Carlos' Alembic? (Read 167 times)

57basstra · « **on:** April 06, 2007, 08:00:31 PM »

Anyone plan on bidding on the '75 Series I Alembic 6 String previously owned by Carlos Alomar? The auction starts April 14 on eBay Live Auctions via Heritage Auction Gallery.

I know this guitar has been discussed here on several occasions. The guitar didn't sell at the last auction. They have it 'guesstimated' at going between $12,000 and $18,000. I may sign up for the auction and then ask questions like: Does it come with a 5 pin cable and/or power box; has it had the electronics upgrade? Y'all know the drill.

I thought it merited another thread.

lbpesq · « **Reply #1 on:** April 06, 2007, 09:16:07 PM »

I like the description of light rhythm pick marks on the front. The picture looks like about a square inch size section has been gouged out of the top. I'd hate to see what they call heavy pick marks. Here's the link.

Bill, tgo

57basstra · « **Reply #2 on:** April 08, 2007, 11:12:00 AM »

Bill, it kinda looks like a rabid coyote got hold of it. This guitar has certainly seen some playing time.

Begs the question as discussed previously, in other threads about this guitar and threads about other guitars played by 'famous people', are they worth more because they happened to belong to someone who had fame (or played on 'Fame'?) Perhaps no, since this one did not sell at previous auction.

Still, this particular guitar has a strange attraction for me. Some of my very favorite music came from Bowie and his bandmates, certainly including Carlos, during the era this guitar was used. Alomar also toured with this guitar and about six Kramer aluminum neck 6-stringers, as I understand it.

I doubt it will fetch $12,000 to $18,000. If it does get anywhere close to this, I believe it will certainly 'boost' the monetary value of our guitars.

Thanks for the response, Bill.

hankster · « **Reply #3 on:** April 09, 2007, 06:36:04 AM »

I saw Carlos playing this guitar with Bowie in 1983 - I was so close to the stage I could nearly read the logo. It has some nostalgic value for me, but not 12 -18k worth, that's for sure.

Rick

57basstra · « **Reply #4 on:** April 14, 2007, 08:00:46 PM »

Wow, the Alomar Alembic didn't quite reach top estimate. The guitar apparently sold this time around on the Heritage Auction block. It had one bid at $11,000 ? with a 22.5 percent buyer's premium added.