1971 Nakade Classical Guitar – Custom-Built for Sato Narumi – Brazilian B&Ss

For sale is a beautifully preserved 1971 Nakade classical guitar, custom-made in Osaka, Japan. This instrument was built by the legendary Nakade workshop (中出)—the most respected classical-guitar–making family in Japan during the mid-20th century.

The handwritten interior label reads:

“Made for Mr. Narumi Satō – 1971 – Nakade, Osaka.”

It also carries the 蔵 maker’s seal, historically associated with Sakazo Nakade, the patriarch of the Nakade family.

This is not a factory guitar.

It is a true luthier-built, one-off custom instrument, commissioned for a specific player, and built during the golden era of Japanese classical guitar making.

Specifications

• Year: 1971
• Scale: 650mm
• Maker: Nakade workshop (likely Sakazo Nakade based on seal & era)
• Top: Solid spruce
• Back & Sides: Beautifully figured Brazilian rosewood
• Neck: Mahogany
• Fingerboard: Ebony
• Bridge: Rosewood with traditional mosaic tie block
• Bracing: Traditional fan bracing
• Finish: Thin natural lacquer
• Case: Original vintage hard case included

Condition

This guitar has been extremely well cared for.

No cracks in the top, back, or sides. No structural issues. The neck is straight, the frets are clean, and the guitar plays comfortably with good action (4mm / 3.5mm) for a classical instrument.

Cosmetics show normal, honest age for a 54-year-old handmade guitar: light marks and patina, but nothing affecting sound or integrity. Tuners function smoothly. The bridge is secure. Label is clean and fully legible.

The original case is included and is in functional vintage condition.

Tone & Character

This guitar has that unmistakable vintage Japanese concert-guitar voice:

• Warm, resonant bass
• Clear, singing trebles
• Excellent note separation
• Rich sustain
• Mature, played-in response you simply can’t get from newer instruments

It has the refined, lyrical tone the Nakade family was famous for—and which made their guitars the most highly regarded in Japan before Kohno and Yairi reached international fame.

Why This Guitar Matters

Custom-order Nakade guitars rarely surface, especially ones with intact provenance and this level of condition.

With modern Japanese luthiery now widely recognized, original Nakade instruments have become highly collectible and sought after by players who appreciate traditional workmanship.

If you want a soulful, handmade Japanese classical guitar from a true golden-era workshop, this is a special piece.