Neck:
Fingerboard:Ebony
Finish(Top):Shellac
Finish(Back & Sides):Shellac
Tuning Machines:SLOANE
String Height(1st):3.0mm
String Height(6th):4.0mm

Maker Information

Alberto Nejime Ohno (Kojiro Nejime, b. 1952)

Alberto Nejime Ohno is one of Japan’s most highly regarded luthiers, celebrated for bringing authentic Spanish tradition into Japanese guitar making. In 1979, he traveled to Spain to study under the legendary Granada master Antonio Marín Montero, with whom he spent two years living and working almost as a member of the family. During this time, he absorbed not only Marín’s techniques but also the deeper cultural and humanistic foundations of Andalusian craftsmanship.

Upon returning to Japan, his guitars were immediately recognized as the country’s first truly Spanish-style instruments—imbued with an unmistakable sensibility and atmosphere that transcended mere imitation. In 1988, he was awarded the Grand Prix at the Kutná Hora International Guitar Making Competition in Czechoslovakia, gaining international acclaim for his artistry and skill.

Nejime’s instruments are renowned for their elegant appearance, immaculate craftsmanship, and rich, luminous tone—powerful yet refined, with exceptional projection. Over the years, his style has matured into one of profound expressiveness and sophistication, placing him among the few Japanese makers whose work commands worldwide admiration comparable to that of his mentor, Antonio Marín.

In addition to his craft, Nejime has also contributed significantly as a teacher and writer. He has served as a judge for major competitions—including the 1st Amateur Guitar Making Contest and the “Luthiers in Yasato” exhibition—and participated in the 7th Coria Guitar Course in Spain. His long-running column “Kimi mo Guitar Builder” (“You Can Be a Guitar Builder”) in Gendai Guitar magazine was met with great enthusiasm and later published as the book “Spanish Classical Guitar Construction Method.” In 2020, his work and interview were featured in Orfeo Magazine No.15, published by Camino Verde in France.

→ Orfeo Magazine “Japanese Luthiers” issue — Available in our online shop

→ Read our report on Orfeo’s visit to Nejime’s workshop (Japanese)

Instrument Information

Alberto Nejime Ohno – Santos Hernández Model “Especial Rio” 1998 (Used)

This is a Santos Hernández Model Especial Rio built in 1998 by Alberto Nejime Ohno (Kojiro Nejime)—a maker for whom Santos Hernández (1874–1943) has always held special significance. Nejime’s deep admiration for the Madrid master is vividly expressed in every aspect of this instrument, both in craftsmanship and acoustics. Made roughly a decade after his Kutná Hora award, it represents a period of full artistic maturity and confidence. The guitar combines precision and vitality, achieving a tone and expressiveness that stood among the very finest in Japan of its time.

True to its name, the instrument features select German spruce for the soundboard and Brazilian rosewood (Rio) for the back and sides. Though showing light signs of aging, the overall appearance remains elegant and dignified, with the delicate sheen of the French polish finish adding a noble character unique to Nejime’s work.

The bracing layout follows one of Santos Hernández’s characteristic designs: a single harmonic bar above and below the soundhole, reinforcement plates flanking both sides, and seven symmetrical fan braces spreading evenly below the waist. There are no closing bars at the lower bout, and a light bridge plate is used—faithfully preserving the original Santos concept. The resonance is tuned around G–G#.

Sonically, Nejime has reinterpreted and refined the Spanish tonal aesthetic pioneered by Santos. Where Santos’ guitars sometimes exhibit charming asymmetry and raw vitality, Nejime’s version organizes these elements into a beautifully balanced structure. Each register—treble, midrange, and bass—retains a distinct identity, yet all blend harmoniously into a deeply three-dimensional and sculptural soundscape. The natural pulse and warmth of the bass, the lyrical singing treble, and the graceful dialogue between melody and accompaniment evoke a quintessentially Spanish expressiveness.

The instrument is in excellent condition, with only minor surface wear—light scratches near the soundhole and a few playing marks. No cracks, repairs, or modifications are noted. Playability is superb: the slim D-shaped neck offers a comfortable grip, and medium string tension provides a responsive, easy touch.

Setup details:

String height: 1st – 2.8 mm / 6th – 4.0 mm (at 12th fret)

Saddle reserve: 0.5–1.0 mm

Tuning machines: Sloan, Leaf-pattern model

Nut, saddle, and bridge tie-block inlays made of ivory

A refined and powerful instrument that captures both the spirit of Santos Hernández and the artistry of one of Japan’s finest contemporary luthiers.

〔detail〕