Christie’s auction of Mark Knopfler’s guitar collection on 31st January 2024.
Mark Knopfler, the virtuoso guitarist and frontman of the iconic rock band Dire Straits, is not only a musical legend but also a passionate collector of guitars that have played a significant role in
shaping his distinctive sound.
On the 31st January, Christie’s Auction House had the privilege of hosting the sale of a portion of Knopfler’s remarkable guitar collection, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of musical history.
The preview of the sale included an immersive sound experience delivered by Dolby and Neumann, which attracted fans from across the world, and generated excitement for almost two weeks before the sale.
The collection saw unprecedented interest, with over 2,300 registrants from 61 countries taking part — 84% of whom were new buyers to Christie’s, the sale lasted over six hours and sold 100% of the lots being offered.
Mark Knopfler: A Musical Journey
Mark Knopfler’s musical journey began in the late 1970s when he formed Dire Straits. His fingerstyle technique and soulful compositions quickly set him apart, earning the band global acclaim. Over the decades, Knopfler has become a respected solo artist, known for his storytelling lyrics and masterful guitar work.
Beyond his success in the music industry, Knopfler’s passion for guitars has been a constant companion throughout his career. The auction at Christie’s provided a rare opportunity for fans to delve into his personal collection and connect with the instruments that contributed to the creation of some of the most iconic songs in rock history.
Some of the highlights included:-
A 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard, achieving an impressive £693,000, this vintage Les Paul Standard was a centrepiece of the auction. With its rich tone and exquisite craftsmanship, it’s a guitar that undoubtedly played a crucial role in shaping the Dire Straits sound.
A 1988 Pensa-Suhr MK-1, co-designed by Mark Knopfler and used at the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute concert in 1988 at Wembley Stadium, sold for £504,000.
A red Schecter Telecaster used to record the hit Dire Straits song ‘Walk Of Life’, fetched £415,800.
The iconic 1983 Gibson Les Paul Standard ’59 Historic Reissue, used by Mark Knopfler to record and perform ‘Money For Nothing’ and ‘Brothers In Arms’ and played on stage at Live Aid, achieved £592,200.
The auction also featured handwritten lyrics, stage-used amplifiers, and other memorabilia, giving fans a comprehensive look into Knopfler’s musical journey.
The Christie’s auction not only provided a platform for guitar enthusiasts to acquire instruments from a music legend but also allowed them to own a piece of the stories behind the music. Each lot sold at the auction carried a unique history, resonating with the spirit of Mark Knopfler’s illustrious career.
As the gavel fell on each lot, it marked the beginning of a new chapter for these guitars, now in the hands of collectors who will cherish and appreciate the musical legacy they represent.
The total sale achieved £8,840,160 – a fantastic result and a true testament to the phenomenal global appeal of Mark Knopfler and Dire Straits.
25% of the proceeds will be divided equally and donated to charities Mark Knopfler has supported for many years: the British Red Cross, Tusk and Brave Hearts of the North East.
100% of the funds raised from the final lot, the 2021 Gibson Les Paul ‘Gold Top’ guitar signed by world-famous musicians including Mark Knopfler, which sold for £403,200, will be donated to Teenage Cancer Trust.
