Signed Stratocaster-Style Electric Guitar

This is a full-sized electric guitar featuring a classic double-cutaway 'Stratocaster' body shape. The body is finished in a high-gloss black paint, complemented by a white three-ply pickguard. It features a standard electronics configuration consisting of three single-coil pickups, one volume knob, two tone knobs, and a five-way selector switch. The bridge is a six-saddle vintage-style tremolo system. The neck is constructed from maple with a rosewood fretboard, punctuated by white dot position inlays. The headstock is not visible, which prevents definitive brand identification, though this build is typical of entry-level S-style instruments. A notable distinguishing feature is a black permanent marker signature located on the lower treble-side of the pickguard, which appears to be 'Bobby Jarzombek,' the drummer known for his work with Halford and Sebastian Bach. Additionally, the letters 'OTU' are applied as white decals or stenciling on the lower horn of the body. The condition appears fair to good; there is visible surface dust across the body and pickguard, light scratches on the gloss finish, and slight discoloration on the white plastic components, suggesting a modern manufacture date from the last 15–20 years. The fretboard wood appears dry, indicating a need for conditioning, but no major structural cracks or chips are immediately apparent.

This appraisal covers a black Stratocaster-style electric guitar featuring a signature attributed to drummer Bobby Jarzombek. Based on physical markers such as the generic hardware, lack of headstock branding, and dry rosewood fretboard, I have identified the instrument as an entry-level 'house brand' or kit guitar. Its intrinsic value as a musical instrument is low, primarily serving as a functional student-grade model. The condition is fair, showing signs of neglect including surface dust and light finish scratches, though it remains structurally sound. The primary value driver is the Bobby Jarzombek signature and the 'OTU' (Our Truth) decal, which suggests a connection to his work with the band Halford or his instructional projects. However, signatures on pickguards on unbranded instruments occupy a niche market. They typically sell at a lower premium compared to signed name-brand instruments (Fender, Gibson). Current market demand for Jarzombek memorabilia is steady but limited to specific heavy metal collectors. My valuation accounts for the moderate premium the signature adds over the base value of the $75-100 guitar. Significant limitations exist regarding authenticity; I cannot verify the ink's age or whether the signature was applied by the artist without a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) or photographic provenance. For a full authentication, I would require an in-person analysis of the ink flow and pressure under magnification, along with documentation linking this specific guitar to a signing event. Without such evidence, the signature is treated as 'attributed' for valuation purposes.