Ramirez 1A,1987, Cedar Indian Rosewood 660mm Scale

The name of Ramirez should need no introduction to lovers of classical guitars and the 1A model is a world renown benchmark of guitar performance, and at various times many famous players have owned and played one.

The guitar isn't in original condition as the Cedar soundboard had to be refinished in French Polish rather than the original Ramirez rose-coloured catalysed lacquer.  This was necessary as the original finish suffered a crack during shipping, though this didn't penetrate to the underlying wood.  In addition the guitar has some evidence of remedial work on the fretboard.  All that said, the guitar has all the characteristics of the Ramirez Spanish sound with very fine trebles and a superb bass response.  The action is a very playable 4mm for the low E string and 3.5mm for the high E.  Earlier 1As are made with a 664mm scale length and a slightly wider than standard nut at 53mm.  Noting the work done on it, the guitar is in good condition and is a very good example of the Ramirez 1A sound and, in my view, the thin French Polish finish gives a more liberated sound response from the guitar than the original catalysed one.  The asking price reflects the fact that the guitar is not in its original condition, but is a fine guitar nonetheless, and an opportunity for someone to own a 1A at an attractive price.

Price £1,950