Luthier David Petillo crafted a unique electric guitar inspired by Johnny Depp’s role in Pirates of the Caribbean. With distinctive appointments, the aquatic axe showcases exceptional design and creativity.
Johnny Depp’s interest in the electric guitar has recently intensified. After performing with Jeff Beck on a surprise cameo and releasing a studio album together, Depp was accompanied Beck on his last North American tour.
Given his growing passion for the instrument, Depp needed a personalized guitar to match his additional axe-related activities. Lucky for him, Petillo put together a one-of-a-kind Shipwreck Tele-style guitar, which is among the most remarkable custom builds of the year.
Petillo built the meticulous guitar with the help of his friend Will Joseph and presented it to Depp backstage. After completing the build throughout the summer, Petillo bonded with Depp while presenting him with the insane-looking custom guitar.
The Shipwreck Tele-style model features a 209-year-old basswood body, a flame maple neck, and a 12” ziricote fretboard. Adorned with brass fashioned in 1899, the body features a fully functioning compass as well as an upper bout inlay of Depp’s daughter Lily Rose, hand-carved from Tahitian gray pearl on a background of pink and purple abalone.
Other distinctive features include two pickguard engravings of the Grim Reaper and “Never Fear Truth,” a holographic picture above the strings, and a deep-sea diver’s helmet fashioned out of steel and copper for the tone knob. The mesmerizing fretboard inlay work includes a deep-sea diver’s helmet surrounded by sea life at the first fret and a treasure chest at the 12th fret.
Depp was thrilled with the Shipwreck guitar and played it during a performance with Jeff Beck. He expressed his admiration for the guitar’s pickups and stated that he would be calling soon for more projects.
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