MY CHARITY SHOP FINDS IN SOUTHAMPTON: HIDDEN GUITAR GEMS WAITING FOR A SECOND LIFE

Ryan Pearce
4 days ago
2 min read

One of the things I love most about running my guitar repair workshop here in Southampton is the thrill of discovering hidden gems — especially in local charity shops around the city. There’s something special about finding an instrument that’s been sitting quietly for years, just waiting for someone to bring it back to life.

On a recent visit to Oxfam in Southampton, I spotted this beautiful Chord electric guitar for just £70. The soft sky-blue finish instantly caught my eye — it’s got that perfect mix of vintage charm and modern style.

At first glance, it might not look like much. Maybe the strings are rusty, the frets a little tarnished, or the output jack crackles when you plug it in. But that’s the kind of challenge I love. With a full setup — fresh strings, fret polishing, a proper clean, and a few electronic tweaks — guitars like this can sound and feel incredible again.

Why I Love Finding Guitars in Southampton’s Charity Shops

There’s something magical about picking up a pre-loved guitar from a local shop. Here’s why I always keep an eye out for them:

🎸 Affordable and fun to restore: Great for beginners or anyone who enjoys a project guitar.

🌍 Eco-friendly: Giving an instrument a second life is sustainable and reduces waste.

🎶 Full of surprises: You never know what you’ll uncover — from budget models like this Chord to rare finds that just need a little TLC.

This one’s now on my bench, getting a full setup and service. Once it’s cleaned, adjusted, and sounding its best, I’ll share an update on how it plays.

If you’re in Southampton or nearby and have a guitar that needs some love — maybe it’s been sitting in the attic, or you’ve found one in a charity shop yourself — drop it by my workshop. I offer guitar repairs, setups, and restorations for all styles and skill levels.