José Luis Romanillos - 1973
Overview
Overview
About the luthier
José Luis Romanillos (1932–2022) is widely regarded as one of the most influential classical guitar makers of the 20th century. His work elevated Spanish guitar craftsmanship through its aesthetic finesse and profound tonal identity. After moving to the UK in the 1950s and learning cabinetmaking, Romanillos transitioned to luthiery under the inspiration of Antonio de Torres. He established his workshop in Semley, England, where he built instruments that gained international recognition, especially after his collaboration with Julian Bream. Romanillos’ guitars are characterized by their refined construction, lyrical voicing, and masterful wood selection. Each guitar is meticulously handmade, with an unwavering commitment to traditional Spanish techniques and artistic detail.
About the guitar
This 1973 guitar by José Luis Romanillos, No. 121, belongs to a seminal period in the luthier’s career. Crafted the same year as Julian Bream’s renowned Romanillos No. 8, it reflects a clear lineage from the 1930 Hermann Hauser I guitar, which Bream admired. With a spruce top and Indian rosewood back and sides, this instrument combines structural elegance with tonal depth. The trebles are especially colorful and expressive, revealing great clarity and nuance across registers. Its basses are robust yet effortless, producing a natural resonance that responds dynamically to touch. The guitar exhibits exceptional volume, capable of projecting in large concert halls, yet maintains exquisite sensitivity when played softly. Its dynamic range, responsiveness, and tonal balance make it a distinguished example of Romanillos’ artistry during a highly formative era.
Condition
This guitar is in very good condition, well preserved for its age and maintaining its original French polish finish. It shows minor playing wear consistent with careful use, and is fully functional, offering a superb playing experience. It comes housed in a Hiscox case.
| Luthier: | José Luis Romanillos |
| Construction year: | 1973 |
| Construction type: | Traditional |
| Top: | Spruce |
| Back and sides: | Indian rosewood |
| Finish: | French polish |
| Air body frequency: | G / G# |
| Scale: | 650 mm |
| Nut: | 51.5 mm |
| Weight: | 1380 grams |
| Tuners: | Rodgers |
| Condition: | Very good |
| Case: | Hiscox |
Details about GPSR:
Classical Guitar
José Luis Romanillos
Siccas Guitars GmbH, Roonstr. 31, 76137 Karlsruhe, Germany, www.siccasguitars.com, info@siccasguitars.com
Note: For antique guitars, the GPSR does not apply.
Video overview
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