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1986 Kramer “Frankenstrat” Guitar
1986 Kramer “Frankenstrat” Guitar

1986 Kramer “Frankenstrat” Guitar

Group (American, 1972 - 2020)
Artist (American and Dutch, 1955 - 2020)
Decade1980s
GenreRock
ClassificationsIGE - Instruments - Guitar Electric
LocationHARD ROCK CASINO TEJON
DescriptionIn 1982, Eddie Van Halen made a mark on the music industry when he used a Kramer version of his original “Frankenstein” for a photograph in a Kramer advertisement. This image not only captured his unique style but also marked the official announcement of his endorsement with the up-and-coming guitar brand.

Over the next decade, Van Halen was deeply involved in refining his guitars, constantly experimenting to find the perfect mix of aesthetics, tone, and ruggedness that would meet his high-performance standards. During this time, he could frequently be seen at the Kramer factory, engaging directly in the creation and modification of the instruments. He would modify the headstocks, tape, and spray paint the bodies, and experiment with pickups and tremolos. In essence, he was making the first series of guitar prototypes, which Kramer engineers could study and attempt to recreate. The goal was to ensure future models would stand out both on stage and in the studio.

His hands-on approach and innovative modifications to a select handful of guitars would later prove to be revolutionary, shaping not just his sound but also influencing generations of guitarists to come.

This guitar was hand-built by Eddie Van Halen himself at the Kramer Factory in 1986. This instrument was equipped with heavily customized parts, tailored to his specifications in ways that were not yet available on any stock models of the time. The unique features of this guitar highlighted Van Halen's commitment to personal expression through his instruments.

In fact, it gained recognition when it was featured in the January 1987 issue of Guitar World magazine, in an article titled "Inside Edward Van Halen's Guitar Shop," which offered an exclusive glimpse into the visionary guitarist's creative process and the meticulous craftsmanship that defined his legendary sound.
About the Artist
Van Halen
Genesis (1972)
Mammoth (1972)
American, 1972 - 2020
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