Ace Frehley's Iconic 'Smoker' Guitar Hits the Auction Block

The Final Note of an Iconic Legacy

The rock world mourned the passing of Ace Frehley, the legendary guitarist of Kiss, last month. Yet, just as he lit up stages with his electrifying riffs and theatrical flair, his legacy continues. One remarkable embodiment of his artistry is now set to capture the hearts of fans and collectors alike — his custom Les Paul guitar, affectionately referred to as the 'Smoker.'

A Glimpse into Rock History

This awe-inspiring instrument, used during Kiss's Farewell Tour from 2000 to 2001, will be auctioned by Gotta Have Rock and Roll starting November 19, ending December 5. The guitar, a sunburst Gibson Les Paul, is not just a musical instrument — it's a piece of rock history, signed by Frehley himself. It comes complete with a certificate of authenticity and a collection of photos featuring Frehley using the guitar during performances.

“Every rockstar has their weapon — for Frehley, it truly was this guitar,” says a representative from Gotta Have Rock and Roll.

The 'Smoker' in Context

One of Frehley's most memorable contributions to the guitar world was the 'Smoker' guitar, which he ingeniously modified to incorporate special effects. Originally conceived from a simple desire to add flair to his performances, this guitar allowed Frehley to unleash smoke and lights as he shredded, captivating audiences.

• First appearance: 1975, during early Kiss performances
• Notable Tours: Psycho Circus World Tour (1999) and the Farewell Tour
• Special features: Equipped with smoke machines and special lighting

Frehley once recounted the experience of modifying the guitar: “I tried to put smoke bombs inside a small cavity in my Les Paul, triggering them with a cigarette lighter — unsurprisingly, it caused havoc with the electronics,” showcasing that madness often accompanies creativity.

Why Collectors Should Pay Attention

This guitar's auction isn't merely a sale; it's a chance for collectors to own a dynamic piece of rock history. After all, a guitar that witnessed some of the most pivotal performances in the rock era deserves recognition. For fans, it's more than an object; it's memorabilia through which we connect with moments that defined generations.

A Legacy Preserved

As Frehley said in a previous interview, his aim was to inspire young guitarists, not just through his playing but through his innovations. “If it wasn't for me, some players would never have picked up the guitar.” This philosophy underlines why this auction is so significant — it's not just about the guitar; it's about the spirit of rock & roll that Frehley embodied. The bidding starts tomorrow, and I can only wonder how high the stakes will rise. Will a die-hard fan snag this piece of musical legend?

Final Thoughts

As we await the auction, the excitement is palpable — not just for collectors, but for anyone who has ever been moved by Frehley's blazing guitar solos. The 'Smoker' serves as a reminder of an artist who wasn't afraid to push boundaries. I can't help but feel that this auction will be a moment to celebrate not just Ace's musical journey but the spirit of creativity and innovation that fuels the world of rock.