Jose Ramirez III - 1985 1a No.18532
Jose Ramirez III - 1985 1a No.18532
Details
Details
Overview
Overview
Video overview
More details about the guitar
About the luthier
José Ramírez III was one of the defining figures of twentieth century classical guitar making. Born in 1922, he assumed leadership of the historic Ramírez workshop in Madrid in 1957 and guided it through a period of unprecedented international influence. Under his direction, the Ramírez guitar became a global reference for concert instruments, shaping the sound and physical concept of the modern classical guitar for several decades.
Beyond his own instruments, José Ramírez III played a decisive role as a teacher and mentor. His workshop trained an exceptional number of highly influential luthiers who later established their own successful careers, making the Ramírez atelier one of the most important centres of guitar making in history. His willingness to experiment, most notably with cedar soundboards and extended string lengths, left a lasting imprint on the development of the concert guitar. Historical context based on The Classical Guitar: A Complete History, Balafon Books, 1997.
About the guitar
This José Ramírez III classical guitar from 1985 represents a mature example of the traditional 1A model as it was produced during the later decades of the workshop’s most influential period. Built with a cedar soundboard and Indian rosewood back and sides, the guitar reflects the characteristic Ramírez aesthetic and construction philosophy of the time. The polyurethane finish, typical for this era, provides durability while supporting a stable and direct tonal response.
Tonally, the instrument offers a clearly Spanish sound character with a strong and centred fundamental. The trebles are bell like and articulate, standing out for their clarity and singing quality, while the basses provide a firm and supportive foundation without becoming diffuse. One of the defining qualities of this guitar is its excellent separation of voices. Each note maintains its own presence, allowing polyphonic textures to unfold with precision and coherence. The overall response is confident and stable, making the instrument particularly suitable for repertoire that demands clarity, projection, and a distinctly traditional concert voice.
Condition
The guitar is in excellent condition. The fretboard was replaced at some point due to normal wear. According to the original owner, this work was carried out in the Ramírez workshop, although the original invoice is no longer available. Apart from this intervention, the instrument shows only minor signs of careful use and remains structurally sound.
While this one is sold, these are ready for you
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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.