san diegos premier walk in tattoo shop

Sailors Grave Tattoo Gallery has been part of San Diego’s tattoo scene since the early 1970s, originally operating as the Tattoo Gallery. Today, the shop is owned and operated by Gary Koblis, a world-renowned and highly respected tattooer with over 26 years of experience.

Known as one of Southern California’s premier walk-in tattoo shops, Sailors Grave welcomes walk-ins daily and is recognized for its experienced artists and high-quality work.

The shop has been named San Diego’s Best Tattoo Shop three years in a row — 2024, 2025, and 2026 — and has also been recognized by the City of San Diego and Mayor Todd Gloria for its contributions to the community.

Our artists specialize in American Traditional, Japanese, Black & Grey, Fine Line, Color, Script, Cover-Ups, and custom work. Sailors Grave has built its reputation on experienced tattooers, quality work, and a shop that continues to be a destination for both locals and visitors.

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Meet the Team

  • GARY KOBLIS

    Gary Koblis is the owner of Sailors Grave Tattoo Gallery and has been tattooing for over 26 years. Specializing in American Traditional, Japanese, Black & Grey, Tribal, and Script, Gary has built a reputation for creating timeless, high-quality tattoos with exceptional craftsmanship. As one of San Diego's most respected tattoo artists, he is dedicated to giving every client a custom piece they'll be proud to wear for life. Gary works by appointment only.

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  • Jadd McElroy

    Jadd McElroy has been tattooing for 11 years, known for his versatile style and easygoing personality. He specializes in American Traditional, Black & Grey, Fine Line, Script, and Realism, creating custom tattoos with attention to detail and quality craftsmanship. Outside of the shop, Jadd enjoys spending his time surfing along the coast.

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  • Josh "BUNZ" ORTIZ

    Joshua "Bunz" Ortiz has been tattooing for 14 years and brings a unique mix of creativity, skill, and personality to Sailors Grave. Specializing in Fine Line, Black & Grey, American Traditional, Cybersigilism, and Blackwork, Bunz is known for his clean execution and ability to adapt across different styles.

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  • Mikey Albritton

    Mikey Albritton has been tattooing for 4 years and has quickly become one of the standout artists at Sailors Grave. Specializing in American Traditional, Black & Grey, and Fine Line, Mikey brings a versatile approach and strong attention to detail to every tattoo he creates. Known for his laid-back personality and easygoing style, he brings a fresh energy to the shop while delivering quality work clients can be proud of.

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  • SHAWN PEITHMANN

    Shawn Peithmann has been tattooing for 6 years and is known as one of the wild cards of Sailors Grave. Shawn enjoys working across a variety of styles including American Traditional, Black & Grey, Fine Line, and more. His easygoing personality and dedication to the craft make him a favorite among clients and the team.

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  • NICK RANK

    Nick Rank has been tattooing for 3 years and is the newest addition to the Sailors Grave team. Specializing in American Traditional, Black & Grey, and Fine Line, Nick brings passion, dedication, and a strong attention to detail to every tattoo he creates. He takes pride in making clients feel comfortable throughout the process while continuing to grow and refine his craft.

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Events

17 YEAR ANNIVERSARY PARTY

Come celebrate 17 years of Sailors Grave!

September 12–13th for a full weekend of tattoos, guest artists, food, prizes, raffles, and good times.

$60 Tattoos • Guest Artists • Raffles • Prizes • Pizza • Coffee

Prizes and raffles from Sauvecito, Loser Machine, Arts & Rec, National City Harley-Davidson, LVFT, and more.

Pizza specials from Massachusetts Mike’s, plus a coffee pop-up from Por Vida Cafe.

Sponsored by Nice Needle Co.

Come hang out, get tattooed, and celebrate 17 years of Sailors Grave in San Diego