Neck:Cedro
Fingerboard:Ebony
Finish(Top):Shellac
Finish(Back & Sides):Shellac
Tuning Machines:Fustero
String Height(1st):3.1mm
String Height(6th):4.8mm

【A Rare 1964 José Ramírez III “Pre-1A” Guitar (IM Stamp)】
[Luthier]
José Ramírez is one of the most important names in the history of the Spanish guitar, a Madrid-based workshop that has continued for over a century from José Ramírez I to the present generation.

The period of José Ramírez III (1922–1995) is widely regarded as the golden era of the dynasty. During the late 1950s and 1960s, the workshop established a unique system that combined high-level craftsmanship with larger-scale production, supported by master builders such as Paulino Bernabé and Mariano Tezanos.

In 1964, Ramírez introduced what would become its flagship model, the “1A”, featuring innovations such as a larger body, extended scale length, and a distinctive tonal character later known as the “Ramírez tone.” Instruments from this era remain highly sought after, especially those bearing the initials of the individual master builder.

[Instrument]
This is a 1964 José Ramírez III classical guitar, built by master luthier Ignacio Manzano Rozas (IM stamp), who worked at the Ramírez workshop from 1961 to 1970.

Although not labeled as such, this guitar represents an early form of the 1A model (“Pre-1A”), made at a pivotal moment just before the full specification of the model was finalized. It features a spruce top with traditional shellac finish, while already incorporating structural elements such as the double-sided construction of the body.

The internal bracing reflects the early development of the 1A design, including a system of harmonic bars and six fan braces, with the resonance set slightly above G.

Tonally, the guitar differs somewhat from later cedar-top 1A models. It offers a more traditional Spanish balance, with a deep and grounded bass supporting clear, articulate trebles. At the same time, it already shows the powerful projection and responsiveness that would define the Ramírez sound. The trebles in particular have a rich and distinctive character.

The condition is very good overall. The guitar retains its original shellac finish, with only light playing marks on the top and minor wear on the back, sides, and neck consistent with age. There are no major crack repairs.

The neck remains in good condition, with slight fret wear in the lower positions that does not affect playability. The neck has a relatively flat D-shaped profile, and the fingerboard features a slightly more pronounced radius than typical classical guitars, with a subtle slope toward the treble side for improved playability.

The current setup measures 3.1mm /4.8mm (1st/6th string at the 12th fret), with 2.0–2.5 mm of saddle remaining. The guitar is fitted with Fustero tuners, functioning well.

Weight: 1.51kg.

〔detail〕