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José Luis Romanillos/Hector Quine - 1973

José Luis Romanillos/Hector Quine - 1973

Details

Construction Year: 1973
Top: Spruce
Back and Sides: Indian rosewood
Body Finish: French polish
Air Body Frequency: G #
Scale (mm): 650
Weight (g): 1495
Tuner: Landstorfer
Strings: Knobloch - EDC 34.0
Condition: Very good
Case: Hiscox Pro II “Siccas Edition”

Overview

The 1973 Hector Quine “No. 18” guitar, built in collaboration with José Luis Romanillos, is an extraordinary rarity that unites two iconic figures in guitar making. Quine crafted the top, while Romanillos completed the sides, back, fingerboard, and purfling, a partnership confirmed both by Quine himself and the handwritten label stating “completed by J. Romanillos.” The instrument reflects Romanillos’s 1970s style in design and dimensions, with trebles that sparkle with clarity and brilliance, and a neck profile that offers his characteristically comfortable playability. Known among connoisseurs as the “Quinillos,” it stands as a unique piece of lutherie history, combining expressive sound with impeccable provenance. In very good condition and free of structural issues, it represents not only an exceptional concert guitar but also a true collector’s treasure.
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Video overview

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Eugen Treichel plays Mazurka Apasionada by Agustín Barrios on a 1973 Hector Quine Classical Guitar
SURPRISE! The Weekly Guitar Meeting #107 - Fischer, Quine/Romanillos, Calanna, Römmich, Esteve
José Luis Romanillos/Hector Quine 1973 Classical Guitar Review

More details about the guitar

About the luthier

Hector Quine (December 30, 1926 – January 1, 2015) was a pioneering classical guitarist and educator whose contributions to the guitar world are immeasurable. Studying initially under Alexis Chesnakov, Quine’s early career was significantly influenced by his association with Julian Bream whom he met at Dr. Boris Perott’s “Philharmonic Society of Guitarists.” This relationship not only forged a lifelong friendship but also deeply influenced Quine’s approach to guitar playing and pedagogy. He authored numerous influential textbooks focusing on guitar methodology and technique, and notably became the first professor of guitar at the Royal Academy of Music. His teachings shaped the careers of eminent guitarists such as Roland Gallery, Michael Lewin, and David Russell. Beyond his educational contributions, Quine was an accomplished luthier, crafting 18 exceptional guitars from 1951 to 1973, reminiscent of the early Hermann Hauser I models. Notably, Julian Bream played Quine’s guitar no. 2 during his debut concert at London’s Wigmore Hall in 1951 and used the same instrument for his recordings in Vienna’s Mozart Hall in 1956, where Bream celebrated its bell-like tone as a revelation in sound.

About the guitar

The guitar labeled “No. 18” from 1973 represents a unique collaboration in the world of lutherie, featuring a top crafted by Hector Quine and the remainder of the instrument-sides, back, fingerboard, and purfling—constructed by José Luis Romanillos. This partnership was confirmed by Quine to a student and friend, and is further authenticated by the label inside the guitar, which is handwritten with “completed by J. Romanillos.” The design and dimensions of this guitar align closely with those made by Romanillos during the 1970s, a period that also saw the creation of JB’s legendary Romanillos guitar.
Dubbed “Quinillos” due to its dual heritage, this guitar is not only a piece of musical artistry but also a significant historical artifact, regarded as one of the rarest guitars on the planet. It remains in very good condition, free from any structural issues. The trebles resonate with the lively and bright characteristics reminiscent of Romanillos guitars from the 1970s, and the feel of the neck distinctly echoes Romanillos’s style, offering a comfortable and familiar playability. This instrument stands out not just for its exceptional craftsmanship and sound quality, but also for its unique provenance and collector’s value, making it a prized possession for any serious guitarist or collector.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Classical Guitars

How do I choose the right classical guitar for my level?

Choosing the right classical guitar depends on your playing level, musical goals, and budget. Beginners benefit from studio-model guitars from renowned workshops, while advanced players and professionals often choose a handmade master guitar. We are happy to advise you personally and can send detailed sound samples and videos on request.

What is the difference between a master guitar and a studio guitar?

Master guitars are built entirely by hand in the workshop of a single luthier, using only high-quality, well-aged tonewoods. Studio guitars are made in small series, often under the supervision of the master luthier, and offer excellent value for students and ambitious amateur players.

Can I try a classical guitar at home for 14 days?

Yes — every guitar you purchase from us comes with a 14-day home approval period. This complimentary trial applies worldwide to all orders, whether you are in Germany, Europe, the USA, Asia or anywhere else. We ship your instrument fully insured in a high-quality case so you can play it under your own acoustic conditions. If the guitar is not the right one for you, simply send it back and receive a full refund of the purchase price.

Can I try a classical guitar before purchasing?

Absolutely. You are warmly invited to visit our showroom in Karlsruhe, Germany, and test the instruments at your leisure. We are happy to schedule a personal appointment. If a visit is not possible, we send detailed videos and sound samples, and offer extensive consultation by phone or video call.

What payment methods and financing options do you offer?

We accept bank transfer, PayPal, major credit cards, and Klarna. For high-value instruments, we offer individual installment plans on request. Please contact us directly — we will find a suitable solution for every budget.

How do I properly care for my classical guitar?

A classical guitar requires constant humidity between 45 and 55 percent. Store the instrument in its case with a humidifier, avoid direct sunlight and large temperature fluctuations. Change the strings regularly and clean the guitar with a soft microfiber cloth.

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