Wayne Charvel
Wayne R. Charvel, whose name became synonymous with highly customized electric guitars, passed away on Sunday, July 12th, 2026, aged 85. He built custom guitars for big names like Eddie Van Halen and developed the Superstrat. Mr. Charvel was influential in starting the guitar custom shop business.
“His greatest legacy is not only the beautiful guitars he built, but also the love, values, and inspiration he shared with everyone around him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him. His impact in the music world and his loving spirit will live on for generations.”
Under his guidance in the late 1980’s, Wayne developed a retro and tastefully designed guitar that became the Surfcaster. Since then, the Charvel Surfcaster has become a highly collectible series of guitars.
Thank you, Wayne, for your inspiration and guidance.
David Lowery of Camper Van Beethoven with Green Quilt 1993 Surfcaster
This site is dedicated to all things Charvel Surfcaster, my favorite and main guitar. I’ve had dozens of them and still have about 10 or so. They are all I ever use in my band, Don Rown and the Uncommitted. Post pictures of your Surfcasters, contribute to the serial number database, and offer your own experiences with the Surfcaster.
My main Surfs
Green Quilt 1993 Charvel Surfcaster
1992 Quilted Orange Tremolo
Charvel Surfcaster Guitars 