Kaoru Ono[尾野　薫] Original Model No.107

Product Description

Neck:Cedro
Fingerboard:Ebony
Finish(Top):Shellac
Finish(Back & Sides):Shellac
Tuning Machines:FUSTERO
String Height(1st):3.0mm
String Height(6th):3.6mm


【Kaoru Ono Original Model No.107 (1999)】
A refined and highly analytical concert guitar by Japanese master luthier Kaoru Ono, built in the Spanish tradition.

[Luthier]
Kaoru Ono (b. 1953) began playing the guitar during his junior high school years. While studying in the Department of Woodcraft at university, he started building guitars as a hobby, applying the knowledge he had gained in woodworking. In 1980, he became a student of Alberto Nejime Ohno (Kojiro Nejime), a disciple of the Granada master Antonio Marín Montero, and learned the traditional Spanish methods of guitar construction, thereafter pursuing lutherie professionally.

Continuing to deepen his study of traditional techniques, in 2001 he attended a guitar-making course in Spain led by the renowned luthier José Luis Romanillos. He also received direct guidance on guitar construction from Antonio Marín Montero himself, and valuable advice and encouragement from Arcángel Fernández during the latter’s visit to Japan.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Ono’s work is his highly analytical approach to traditional Spanish construction methods, based on his own scientific observations and research. By carefully pursuing the optimal resonance of each individual instrument, his guitars are known for their exceptional tonal balance and their clear, transparent, and refined sound.

Beyond tonal excellence, his instruments are also distinguished by meticulous craftsmanship in every detail and by an elegant appearance achieved through delicate finishing. In terms of overall quality, his guitars are regarded among the finest made in Japan today. His annual production was approximately ten instruments. In 2020, his work and an interview with him were featured in issue No.15 of Orfeo Magazine, published by the French publisher Camino Verde.

He passed away in July 2024, but his instruments continue to receive high acclaim and remain highly valued by performers and collectors alike.


[Instrument]
An original model built in 1999 by Kaoru Ono, No.107. The scale length is set at 650 mm.

This guitar is characterized by a soft and light tonal character, with excellent balance from the trebles to the basses. It possesses the clear, transparent, and refined sound that is distinctive of Ono’s work. The volume, response, and sustain are all well-balanced, offering a natural and comfortable playing experience. The string tension feels relatively supple, contributing to its excellent playability.

The instrument features a full French polish finish, and is fitted with tuning machines made by Fustero. The neck remains straight and the playability is excellent, with almost no noticeable fret wear. The current string height is set at 3.0 mm on the 1st string and 3.6 mm on the 6th string, with approximately 1.5 mm of saddle remaining, allowing for further adjustment if desired.

Approximately 25 years have passed since its construction, and there are minor playing marks near the treble side of the soundhole as well as light surface scratches near the center of the lower bout on the top. These marks are superficial and do not affect the instrument’s performance. There is no history of crack repairs, and the French polish finish remains stable without deterioration. The guitar is in very good condition overall.

A blue Aranjuez case is included.