When I bought a new instrument a decade ago, I did some reading on the tax implications. I was ready to splurge on something nice. There was a fascinating case of a musician who bought a super expensive 200 year old instrument. He amortized the expense over some period like 7 years. Then he was invited to come on down to the tax court for a friendly chat.

Turns out, the tax court didn't smile on depreciating an appreciating asset that demonstrably lasts 200 years.

I actually considered buying an instrument in salvage condition and paying to have it restored, since restoration is an expense. But in the final analysis, I was more interested in playing than screwing around for a few dollars in tax savings.