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Yukinobu Chai



〔detail〕
InstrumentYukinobu Chai
CategoryJapanese Classical Guitars 〔Vintage〕
Number/ModelClass 60 Cembalo guitar
Scale length630mm
CountryJapan
Year
TopSolid Spruce
Side&BackSolid South American Rosewood
Condition※8
List priceINQUIRE
Price (tax included)Please Inquire
optionwith Hardcase

Neck:Mahogany
Fingerboard:Ebony
Finish:Polyurethan
Tuning Machine:GOTOH
String height:1string 1.1mm/6string 1.6mm

[Profile]
Born in 1931, Mr. Yukinobu Chai began crafting violins while attending university, which led him to pursue the creation of stringed instruments on his own. In 1968, he began crafting classical guitars. His instruments gained popularity for their extremely orthodox designs, producing a rich, well-balanced sound. He was known for his uncompromising craftsmanship, claiming that his guitars were 'absolutely unbreakable,' a testament to the durability of his work. His guitars matched the tastes of many Japanese musicians, attracting support from both classical and non-classical guitar users. Today, his son, Mr. Yukihiro Chai, continues the work at the Chai Guitar Workshop.


[Description]
This is a Chai Yukinobu Model No. 60 Clavichord Guitar (No. 025700), a used instrument that has been designed for ensemble use. It is strung with 12 steel strings in a re-entrant tuning, similar to a traditional clavichord or lute. The tuning follows the same method as a regular classical guitar.

The top is made of spruce, and the back and sides are crafted from South American rosewood, making this model a high-spec version among the luthier’s collection. Unlike a typical circular soundhole, this guitar features a decorative design with a pattern reminiscent of Islamic lute or oud designs, contributing to its visual appeal and evoking the look of historical instruments.

To withstand the tension of steel strings, the neck has been reinforced with a truss rod, and it currently maintains a straight alignment. The frets from the 1st to the 12th have been replaced, and although the shape and size differ from the 13th fret onwards, it does not affect playability.

There are no repairs or crack histories, and while the guitar has likely been around for 20-30 years, it shows some signs of playing such as small dings and scratches, typical of its age. Overall, the guitar is in good condition for its age and remains a fine example of craftsmanship.

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Click to enlarge the photos below




Iwao Kanayama
Teruaki Nakade
Mitsuru Tamura
Saburo Nogami
Yukinobu Chai
Toshihiko Nakade

※Condition
10New
9Mint
8Exellent
7Very good
6Good
5Normal condition due to aging