Antony Wandre Pioli was born in Italy in 1926, the son of violin maker Roberto Pioli. He began making guitars in the 1950s. Today Wandre’s 1950s & early •60s guitars are celebrated for their radical aluminum necks (which can’t ever warp), their unique switching, and most of all their wonderful shapes and fantastic pop-art colors. Many are in art museums. Plus, they’ve been cherished and played by such noted guitarists as Jimi Hendrix, Buddy Miller (of Emmy Lou Harris fame), and Ace Frehley of Kiss. In 1957, Wandre began working with instrument makers Davoli (already well-known for their pick-ups and amps). While production runs were low (compared with US makers Fender or Gibson) they sold well the world over.
Many were distributed under other brand names, like Framez, Noble, Avalon, and others. Yet each and every guitar, from their 1957 beginnings right up to the mid-60s, was designed by Wandre himself and bears his name. Most were made in his famous round factory (now an Italian landmark) in the small town of Cavriago. The names that Wandre whimsically chose for his guitar models sound straight out of an early 60’s Fellini movie: the solidbody “Doris”, the hollowbody “Bikini” and “B.B.” (for Brigitte Bardot), the “Cobra”, “Twist”, “Spazial”, and many more.
No matter how busy, Wandre always found time for his true passion, his art. The most sought-after of his guitars and basses are the “Rock-Oval” and “BB” models, with hand-painted colors. Each is both a musical and pop-art masterpiece. Of course, all genuine Wandres are sought-after. No more will ever be made.
Just in is this totally cool Rock Oval guitar now residing in out personal collection. Its known as the Italian Picasso of guitars, made in the late 50’s thru the early 60’s, these were so advanced in their production process & new ideas that most players had no interest. Hence the rarity. From its molded hollow body construction to its unique pickup/pickgard design to its aluminum neck…these are so frickin wild & beautiful. We also have posted several other examples & some advertizing lit of this rare Brand. We have loved these for nearly 3 decades, we had this wall sculpture made for us hanging in our house ever since. Enjoy…
