Wandre Davoli Tri-Lum 1960's - Red

This second hand electric guitar is in very good condition

The Wandre / Davoli Tri-Lum is one of the more adventurous creations from Antonio Vandrè Pioli (aka “Wandre”), produced in Italy in the early to mid-1960s. 

Wandre guitars in general are known for:

• Extremely unconventional body shapes and artistic / sculptural aesthetics

• Aluminum necks (with a wooden fingerboard attached) rather than traditional all-wood necks

• Unique switching and pickup circuitry, often experimental (for their time)

• Very limited production numbers, making surviving examples collectible and rare

In catalogs / listings, this model is sometimes referred to as a “sound sculpture” — a guitar that is as much art object as instrument.

Because the name “Tri-Lum” / “Tri-Lam” varies, there is some ambiguity in the naming in different vendor listings.

Aesthetic & Build Impressions

From the images and descriptions:

• The body shape is dramatic, non-standard, with flowing, asymmetrical curves. It distinguishes itself visually from conventional guitar silhouettes.

• The finish is typically bold — e.g. red, blue, or other colors are used.

• The pickguard and control plate appear often as contrasting plastic elements, sometimes integrated into the form in a sculptural way.

• In some surviving examples, aesthetic wear issues are evident: rubber binding or edging may come loose, glue residue visible, cracks or extra holes in pickguard areas.

• The aluminum neck is a standout: it would feel cold to the touch (hence many vintage owners mention a thin “tape” or wrap along the neck to reduce that sensation)

So visually and in feel, this guitar is striking, quirky, and deeply unconventional. It’s not going to blend in; it’s a piece that claims attention.

Playability & Ergonomics

Because of its rare and experimental nature, playability is a somewhat subjective and inconsistent domain. But from what owners report:

Pros:

• The aluminum neck, lacking a traditional truss rod, can be tilted to adjust action (i.e. angle) rather than relying on internal tension rods.

• Despite the radical looks, some players find the neck surprisingly navigable (i.e. one vendor comments it is “cleverly designed, its neck surprisingly comfortable and easy to navigate”).

• Because the shape is unconventional, the guitar may lend itself to very creative playing postures or arm angles; that can be liberating for some.

Sound & Electronics

Given how rare the Tri-Lum is, documented sound demos are harder to find. But from the available descriptions:

• The guitar is often sold as “surprisingly versatile when you plug it in,” meaning that despite its avant-garde looks, it can cover a range of tones.

• The electronics tend to be simple, but with experimental wiring or switching typical of Wandre guitars.

• Because of the metal neck and likely nonstandard body design, the tone may have unique resonance and sustain characteristics (some metallic bite or sharper overtones).

• Some listings mention it has a single pickup, embedded in the pickguard, which implies limitations or character in tonal palette.

One should not expect it to compete with modern high-performance guitars in terms of fidelity or dynamic control—but rather enjoy it for its distinct voice and character.

Collector Value & Rarity

• The Tri-Lum is extremely rare. Very few remain in playable / reasonable condition.

• Its design heritage (from Wandre / Antonio Pioli) gives it strong appeal in vintage / boutique guitar circles.

• Listings show high price tags: the 1964 red example is listed around USD/NZD values reflecting its premium collectible status.

• Condition, originality (original hardware, electronics, finish) and structural integrity will heavily influence value.

• Because of vintage age, parts may be scarce; repairs or replacements must be handled carefully to preserve character and value.

The Wandre Davoli Tri-Lum is not a guitar for those seeking reliability, ease, or “safe” modern performance. Instead, it’s for the adventurous collector or artist who finds inspiration in the unusual, the bold, the sculptural.

Strengths:

• Iconoclastic design and strong visual / artistic statement

• Historical pedigree within the Wandre lineage

• Characterful sound and playing experience

• Rarity and collectibility factor

If have a chance to try one, embrace it not just as a tool but as a musical art object. It demands patience, care, and a willingness to accept eccentricities. But for the right person, it can become a prized centerpiece in a collection or a source of creative inspiration.