Asturias / Junichiro Oose Romanillos Model
c2005 Asturias Junichiro Oose Romanillos
Asturias is a small shop in Kyushu, Japan, which has been producing hand-made guitars in small numbers since 1962. This one is from around 2005 and could be considered among the precursors to the Traditional Works, a line of guitars patterned after designs of the most well-known figures in classical luthiery. This particular one is modeled after the work of Jose Romanillos. While the stock instruments from the Traditional Works line are shop-built, this one was made by an individual craftsman, Junichiro Oose, and is indicated as such on the special label. Being built as an individual guitar, this one also features some higher end touches, like a shellacked top and lacquer back and sides, along with Gotoh Premium tuners. The Romanillos Traditional Works, even the team-built models, are no longer in production.
Specs / Measurements
c2005
Euro spruce / EI Rosewood
~51.5mm nut
~650mm string length
~58.59mm string spacing at saddle
~14” lower bout
Romanillos-style appointments and construction
French polished shellac finish on the top
Gotoh Premium tuners with fancy ivoroid buttons
Flat top hard case, slightly over sized
Condition / Setup Notes
The guitar is in excellent condition, with only minor surface wear. There are some light marks in the delicate top finish, and some light scratching on the back that is light enough to be buffed out. A slight mark in the pointy headstock tip. Very clean overall. String height currently about 3mm -2.5mm from bass to treble, and very straight neck with just a touch of relief.
***
Asturias produces a high quality product in general, and this one is a cut above given the single builder dedicated to it, and its extra consideration in materials and finish. With Romanillos being a giant in classical guitar making, it’s quite nice for there to be more accessible guitars that borrow from his aesthetic and designs. Namesake aside, this is a sophisticated instrument that stands on its own, and an incredible value for a guitar made by a single artisan from a well-respected operation.
$2475
Thanks for looking, any questions please feel free to get in touch.
This instrument ships for free via UPS Ground to the Continental US.