Ryoji Matsuoka M100 1980-1985

Ryoji Matsuoka M100 Classical Guitar

Model: Ryoji Matsuoka M100
Serial Number: 00500960
Maker: Ryoji Matsuoka
Country of Origin: Japan
Type: Handmade Classical Guitar
Estimated Production Period: Early to mid-1980s (approximately 1980–1985)

Specifications (Typical for the M100 Model)

• Top: Solid Cedar (commonly used on M100 models)
• Back & Sides: Rosewood
• Neck: Mahogany
• Fingerboard: Ebony
• Bridge: Rosewood
• Scale Length: Approximately 650 mm
• Nut Width: Approximately 52 mm
• Finish: Traditional gloss lacquer
• Construction: Handcrafted Spanish-style classical guitar
• Made in: Japan

Detailed Description

The Ryoji Matsuoka M100 is a high-grade Japanese classical guitar built during the golden era of Japanese luthiery. Positioned above entry-level models, the M100 was designed for serious students and advanced players seeking a rich, refined classical tone without the cost of a concert-level instrument.

The solid cedar soundboard provides a warm and responsive voice with excellent projection and quick note development. The rosewood body contributes depth, sustain, and complex overtones, while the ebony fingerboard offers durability and precise playability. The guitar features traditional Spanish-inspired bracing and craftsmanship, resulting in excellent balance across all registers.

Visually, the M100 exhibits elegant Japanese attention to detail, including refined purfling, clean joinery, and a beautifully finished rosewood body. These instruments are highly regarded for their consistency, reliability, and musical character.

Sound Characteristics

The M100 produces a warm, mature, and expressive tone with strong bass response and clear, singing trebles. Cedar's natural responsiveness makes the guitar particularly suitable for romantic and contemporary classical repertoire. The sound is balanced, rich in harmonics, and offers excellent sustain, making it equally enjoyable for fingerstyle and classical performance.

Production Year

Based on the label and serial number 00500960, the guitar was most likely produced during the early-to-mid 1980s. Unfortunately, Ryoji Matsuoka serial number records are not fully documented publicly, so the exact year cannot be confirmed from the serial number alone. Most experts place M100 guitars with similar labels and numbering in the 1980–1985 period.

About the Luthier: Ryoji Matsuoka

Ryoji Matsuoka was one of Japan's most respected classical guitar makers. Beginning his career in the post-war period, he became renowned for producing high-quality handmade instruments inspired by the Spanish tradition of guitar building. His workshop created a wide range of models, from student instruments to professional concert guitars, all known for excellent craftsmanship, reliable construction, and rich musical tone.

Today, vintage Ryoji Matsuoka guitars remain highly sought after by classical guitarists and collectors for their outstanding value and traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Note: Due to years of use, this instrument has some external dents and scratches, but its structural integrity remains excellent. It produces a bright, beautiful, and lyrical tone.

The instrument is sold exactly as shown in the photos and described in the text above.