What Vintage Verified’s Work Means for the Industry

The technology we employ to analyze and authenticate vintage instruments represents a shift for the industry. Until very recently, these kinds of scientific tools were not within reach for most vintage guitar dealers or buyers. We understand that bringing scientific analysis into the process changes how instruments are understood—past, present, and future.

As part of this work, there will inevitably be times when our findings differ from the way an instrument was previously described. We do not view this as evidence of negligence or dishonesty on the part of the current or past seller. We must assume all dealers/sellers have always done their best to describe instruments properly, and used the best knowledge and tools available to them. Furthermore, in many cases, prior modifications, repairs, or even forgeries can be almost impossible to detect with the naked eye by even the best experts

For that reason, Vintage Verified does not view its role as retroactive policing of the market. We are not interested in pursuing or encouraging criticism or litigation against dealers for past descriptions. Additionally, while we do not retain the legal jurisdiction to dictate how our reports are used, we want to make clear that our intent is not to provide a weapon for revisiting old transactions or resolving disputes after the fact. Unless subpoenaed by a court, Vintage Verified will not participate in legal disputes of any kind nor venture any guesses as to when or by whom modifications may have occurred. 

Our purpose is forward-looking: to bring clarity, transparency, confidence and scientific rigor to the description and sale of vintage instruments, in a way that strengthens trust across the industry.