Sakurai Kohno Model Maestro 2003

Another exceptionally rare bird has landed!

The 2003 Sakurai Kohno Model Maestro is a pinnacle of Japanese luthiery, seamlessly blending traditional craftsmanship with modern acoustic innovation. Built by Masaki Sakurai, nephew and apprentice of legendary luthier Masaru Kohno, this guitar reflects decades of refinement in design and construction.

Masaru Kohno, who founded his workshop in 1948, earned worldwide recognition for his meticulous guitars with rich tonal palettes. Following Kohno’s passing in 1998, Sakurai preserved the Kohno legacy while incorporating his pioneering vibration theories to craft instruments renowned for their resonance and playability.

Inspired by Masaru Kohno’s iconic designs, the Maestro model represents the workshop’s finest craftsmanship. The guitar combines original bracing techniques to harmonize deep bass tones with clear, rich trebles. Constructed using master-grade spruce for the top and premium Madagascar rosewood for the back and sides, it delivers an unparalleled tonal depth and responsiveness. The neck, made from Spanish cedar, features a unique integrated body connection for enhanced sustain and stability. Finished with cashew varnish, the guitar’s natural look is complemented by tonal openness and warmth.

This particular guitar is in very good condition, with only minor playwear. It includes the original hard-shell case, also in good condition. Weighing just 1500 grams, it is lightweight and exceptionally comfortable to play.

Famous players of Kohno and Sakurai guitars include Julian Bream, Shin-ichi Fukuda, and John Williams, a testament to their status among the world’s finest classical guitars.

SPECIFICATIONS

Top: Master-grade spruce
Back & Sides: Premium Madagascar rosewood
Neck: Spanish cedar with integrated body connection
Fretboard: Ebony
Bridge: Madagascar rosewood
Scale Length: 650mm
Nut Width: 52mm
Fretboard Width at 12th Fret: 67mm
Machine Heads: Gotoh 510 series, precision-engineered
Finish: Cashew varnish for natural aesthetics and tonal openness
Bracing: Original Kohno design for tonal balance
Binding: Rosewood with purfling
Rosette: Handcrafted mosaic pattern
Case: Original hard-shell case, in good condition
Condition: Very good, minor playwear
Weight: 1500g