In pictures: Richard Gere guitar collection auction highlights

1954 Fender Stratocaster

11 October sees Christie's in NYC host The Richard Gere Guitar Collection, an auction of around 110 lots that includes an array of sumptuous vintage instruments and amplifiers.

You didn't know that the An Officer & A Gentleman star was into guitars? Here's what he has to say on the matter: "I've had a love affair with guitars since I was a kid. They have been my true friends through the best and worst of times.

"I never planned to put together a collection, I just bought ones that I liked, the ones that sounded good and played well. Some are very special. Although it's more than a little painful to let them go, each one has been played, loved and appreciated, and will be again."

The auction is expected to raise in excess of $1,000,000. Visit Christie's for more, but first check out the seriously drool-worthy highlights that follow...

1954 Fender Stratocaster (headstock detail)

1931 Martin D-28

1931 Martin D-28 (headstock detail)

1958 Gibson Flying V

Documented as a pre-production prototype by Gibson, this guitar was formally the property of Albert King.

1958 Gibson Flying V (headstock detail)

Documented as a pre-production prototype by Gibson, this guitar was formally the property of Albert King.

Fender 1953 Telecaster

Fender 1953 Telecaster (headstock detail)

1935 D'Angelico Exel

Formerly the property of James D’ Aquisto

1935 D'Angelico Exel (headstock detail)