Founded by Italian luthier Antonio Pioli in Cavriago, Reggio Emilia, Italy, Wandré produced electric guitars and basses from 1957 to roughly 1969. Pioli's father, himself a noted violin maker near Cremona, gave his son the nickname "Wandré" — meaning "to go in reverse" in the local dialect — for his eccentric tendencies. That spirit of unconventionality defined every instrument the company produced, with bold, modernist body shapes, vibrant finishes, and an artistic sensibility that had more in common with industrial design than with the traditional guitar-making of the era.

Wandré guitars are best known for their pioneering use of aluminum necks — predating American builders like Travis Bean by over a decade — and for pickups and electronics designed by collaborator Athos Davoli. The lineup included over 30 models with evocative names: the Rock Oval (widely regarded as the brand's most iconic design), the Roby, the Soloist, the B.B. (designed in honor of Brigitte Bardot), the Bikini (which featured a built-in amplifier), the Cobra, the Tri-Lam, and many more. Production also involved partnerships with Framez (1960–1963) and Davoli (1963–1965), and instruments appeared under several other brand names including Dallas, Avalon, Noble, and Lipsky. Approximately 70,000 instruments were produced in total.

After Pioli closed the factory around 1970, Wandré guitars became prized collectibles, ranking among the most sought-after Italian-made electrics of the 1960s. Nashville guitarist and producer Buddy Miller is the brand's most prominent champion, having played Wandré Soloist models on recordings including sessions with Emmylou Harris. Eastwood Guitars produces modern tribute models based on classic Wandré designs, including a Soloist reissue developed in consultation with Miller.

Wandré has 4 products cataloged on Equipboard, including Solid Body Electric Guitars. Their gear is featured by 3 artists, with the strongest followings in Rock, Folk, World, & Country, and Funk / Soul. Notable users include Gustavo Cerati, Massimo Martellotta, and Eddy Grant.