1980 Masaji Nobe No. 20 Handmade Classical Concert Guitar Fleta-style bracing made in Japan w/hard case
Maker: Masaji Nobe
Model: No. 20
Condition:
Description:
Here for your consideration is a 1980 Masaji Nobe No. 20 Handmade Classical Concert Guitar in excellent condition! Handmade by legendary Japanese masterbuilder Masaji Nobe. Body shows some very light surface marks but otherwise is very clean with no major damage or issues. Neck and headstock are in excellent condition showing only the very lightest surface marks with no major damage or blemishes. Fretboard and frets are in excellent condition showing no notable damage or wear. Bridge and saddle are in excellent condition and very stable. A masterfully built instrument with attention to every detail. Incredible tone, and feel. Has been carefully inspected by our tech and ready for a new home. Includes hard case. See below for a full list of specs and information.
Weight: 3lbs 10oz
Neck Shape: U
Neck Thickness: 1st fret .841"
Fretboard Radius: Flat
Nut width: 52mm
The Masaji Nobe No. 20 (1980) is a highly collectible, master-built vintage classical concert guitar crafted by the legendary Japanese luthier Masaji Nobe. Renowned for his meticulous, one-man production, Nobe's instruments from this era are sought after globally for their elite craftsmanship, premium old-growth tonewoods, and deep, resonant acoustic character that heavily draws comparison to elite "Fletaesque" sound profiles.
Masaji Nobe (1935–2004) was a legend in Japanese lutherie, operating a true one-man workshop alongside other domestic greats like Masaru Kohno and Sakazo Nakade. Because he built his instruments almost entirely by himself, his output was limited, making his guitars rare and highly collectible.
- Model Number Meaning: In the Japanese luthier system of the 1970s and 1980s, the model number "20" meant the guitar originally retailed for 200,000 Japanese Yen.
- Top Wood: Solid German Spruce, noted for producing transparent high notes and exceptionally clear note separation.
- Back & Sides: Premium Solid Rosewood (with some higher-end or older models featuring Jacaranda/Brazilian Rosewood).
- Scale & Playability: Commonly built with a slightly shorter, comfortable 630mm to 640mm scale length paired with a slim 50mm nut width, making it exceptionally smooth to play.
- Bracing & Finish: Traditional multi-fan bracing pattern completed with a meticulous, thin French polish/shellac finish to allow the wood to breathe and vibrate freely.
- Tone Profile: It delivers a bold, heavy, cello-like bass response paired with bright, sparkling trebles and rich sustain.
