From Massive Contest to Personal Prize (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Rock enthusiasts have a rare opportunity to own a piece of guitar history as a custom Kramer instrument once used by Eddie Van Halen enters the auction spotlight.[1]
From Massive Contest to Personal Prize
In 1984, Kramer Guitars and Guitar for the Practicing Musician magazine launched a high-stakes promotion that drew nearly 100,000 entries nationwide. The grand prize promised one of Eddie Van Halen’s own Kramer guitars, turning a simple entry form into a dream ticket for aspiring musicians.
Michael Gutierrez, then an 18-year-old from Sacramento, California, emerged as the winner. His victory earned him an all-expenses-paid trip to Los Angeles and a personal handover from Van Halen himself at the 1985 NAMM show. Film crews captured the moment, preserving the exchange on video for posterity.
Gutierrez held onto the guitar for over four decades before deciding to consign it for auction. He plans to deliver the instrument directly to the winning bidder, adding a personal touch to the transaction.[1]
Custom-Built in the Heart of Rock Innovation
Eddie Van Halen assembled and customized the guitar on his personal workbench in 1984, making it a true reflection of his innovative style. The instrument saw heavy use during recording sessions at 5150, the legendary Los Angeles studio Van Halen built on his property where many Van Halen albums took shape.
Rudy Leiren, Van Halen’s longtime friend and guitar technician, confirmed its role in those studio sessions. Subtle details like the initials “RL” etched under the tremolo springs tie it directly to Leiren’s work. The guitar’s worn condition speaks to its intensive handling and creative output.
A popular account suggests Van Halen grabbed the wrong case when leaving the studio, leading to this prized axe becoming the contest giveaway. While legends abound, the documented path from 5150 to NAMM solidifies its authenticity.
Impeccable Provenance Secures Its Legacy
Collectors prize the guitar for its ironclad documentation. Key provenance items include:
- A letter from Gary Kramer, founding member of Kramer Guitars, signed in 2016 and noting it as the only known custom EVH Kramer he autographed.
- SIA Photomatch Letter of Authenticity, confirming photo-matching evidence.
- Video footage of the 1985 NAMM handoff from Van Halen to Gutierrez.
- Gotta Have Rock and Roll Certificate of Authenticity and additional letters of provenance.
These elements elevate the lot beyond typical memorabilia, offering buyers tangible proof of its Van Halen connection. The striped design echoes the visual flair of his iconic axes, further fueling interest among fans and investors.[1]
Auction Fever Builds for Rock Royalty
The 2026 March Rock & Roll Pop Culture Auction on GottaHaveRockandRoll.com opens today, February 25, at 2:00 p.m., running through March 13. Bidding starts at a minimum of $800,000, with experts estimating a sale price between $1.5 million and $2 million.
This follows a string of high-profile Van Halen guitar sales, including a 1982 Kramer that fetched $2.7 million at Sotheby’s last year. Demand for EVH gear remains strong, driven by his enduring influence on rock guitar techniques.[3]
Gutierrez’s decision to part with the guitar marks the end of a personal chapter but opens the door for a new owner to steward this slice of music history.
As bidding unfolds, this Kramer stands as a testament to Van Halen’s genius and the thrill of rock discovery. The next chapter awaits the highest offer.
Key Takeaways
- Custom 1984 Kramer used in 5150 studio sessions by Eddie Van Halen.
- Won by Michael Gutierrez in a 1985 contest with 100,000 entrants; video-documented handoff.
- Auction estimate: $1.5M–$2M, starting February 25, 2026, on GottaHaveRockandRoll.com.
What do you think this guitar will ultimately sell for? Share your predictions in the comments.