Paulino Bernabé Sr. - 1978

Paulino Bernabé Sr. - 1978

Overview

P. Bernabé Sr. (* 2. Juli 1932 in Madrid; † 10. Mai 2007 Madrid) was one of the greatest and most renowned luthiers from Spain. Before he founded his first workshop in 1969, where he worked along with his son Paulino Jr. from the 1980s onwards, Paulino Sr. worked in José Ramirez III’s workshop in the 1950s and 1960s. Bernabé guitars are still played in major venues all around the world today. Thibaut Garcia for instance, the winner of the 2016 Guitar Foundation of America (GFA) competition, has been playing on a Bernabé for several years.
This important guitar was built by Paulino Bernabé Sr. when he was still working alone in his workshop. It is a fascinating historical piece and a delightful work of art. The guitar is in remarkable condition, almost as good as new. Only a few minor marks are visible on the soundboard. The back and sides are absolutely incredible, in perfect condition and made of sumptuous Brazilian rosewood (CITES certified). This is an extremely rare guitar, especially in this condition.
Not only will this instrument be appreciated for its historical and collectible value, but also for its astounding sound qualities. It is a guitar that combines power, sustain and clarity. The tone is warm and the sound colour possibilities are particularly extensive. It is a rather large guitar, but the thin neck is very easy to play. It's really a majestic instrument that we rarely come across.

Luthier: Paulino Bernabé Sr.
Construction year: 1978
Top: Spruce
Back and sides: Brazilian rosewood (Cites certified)
Scale: 660 mm
Nut: 54 mm
Weight: 1710 grams
Air resonance frequency: A
View full details

Video overview

Paulino Bernabé 1978 - Purple Ash by Cim Frode & Prel 3 Villa-Lobos

While this one is sold, these are ready for you

  • Classical Guitar

    The classical guitar, with its soft nylon strings and characteristic timbre, has become a symbol of chamber music, Spanish tradition, and concert repertoire. Its modern form was shaped by Antonio de Torres in the 19th century, setting the standard for the body, fan bracing, and the 65-centimeter scale length that are still used today. Instruments in this category open up a rich palette from the refined Romantic miniatures of Tárrega to the majestic concertos of Rodrigo. Here you will find guitars that preserve historical continuity and at the same time inspire new interpretations.
    Look all products of the collection
  • Luthier: Elvis Pajares
    Construction Year: 2025
    Construction Type: Double Top
    Top: Cedar
    Back and Sides: Indian rosewood
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: French polish
    Air Body Frequency: F / F sharp
    Weight (g): 1415
    Tuner: Kris Barnett
    Condition: New
  • Luthier: José Luis Romanillos
    Construction Year: 1979
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Indian rosewood
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: French polish
    Air Body Frequency: G / G sharp
    Weight (g): 1410
    Tuner: Rodgers
    Condition: Excellent
  • Luthier: Elvis Pajares
    Construction Year: 2025
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Flamed Maple
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: French polish
    Air Body Frequency: F / F sharp
    Weight (g): 1365
    Tuner: Kris Barnett
    Condition: New
  • Luthier: Giovanni Tacchi
    Construction Year: 2023
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Flamed Maple
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: French polish
    Air Body Frequency: E / F
    Weight (g): 1300
    Tuner: Alessi
    Condition: Mint
  • Construction Year: 2025
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Indian rosewood
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: French polish
    Air Body Frequency: F sharp / G
    Weight (g): 1605
    Tuner: Perona
    Condition: New
  • Luthier: Otto Vowinkel
    Construction Year: 2019
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Cedar
    Back and Sides: Indian rosewood
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: French polish
    Air Body Frequency: G / G sharp
    Weight (g): 1590
    Tuner: Sloane
    Condition: Excellent
  • Luthier: Hermann Hauser II
    Construction Year: 1956
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Brazilian rosewood (CITES certified)
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: French polish
    Air Body Frequency: F sharp / G
    Weight (g): 1440
    Tuner: Landstorfer
    Condition: Excellent
  • Luthier: Fritz Ober
    Construction Year: 2019
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Brazilian rosewood (CITES certified)
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: French polish
    Air Body Frequency: C sharp / D
    Weight (g): 1345
    Tuner: Klaus Scheller
    Condition: Excellent
  • Construction Year: 2006
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Brazilian rosewood (CITES certified)
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: French polish
    Air Body Frequency: F sharp / G
    Weight (g): 1495
    Tuner: Sloane
    Condition: Excellent
  • Luthier: Paul Fischer
    Construction Year: 1982
    Construction Type: Traditional
    Top: Spruce
    Back and Sides: Brazilian rosewood (Pre-CITES)
    Soundboard Finish: French polish
    Body Finish: French polish
    Air Body Frequency: G / G sharp
    Weight (g): 1655
    Tuner: Rodgers
    Condition: Excellent

Related guitars

Stay up to date with our news

Be the first to know about new collections and exclusive discounts.