Born in Madrid in 1926, Manuel Contreras joined the workshop of José Ramírez III as a senior journeyman in 1959. It was Contreras who built the first José Ramírez guitar purchased by Andrés Segovia in 1960. After three years with Ramírez, Manuel opened his own guitar workshop in the center of Madrid, where he quickly earned a reputation as one of Spain’s finest and most innovative luthiers. Contreras passed away in 1994.

This handmade concert classical guitar dates from his finest period and is personally signed by Manuel Contreras Sr. This instrument is truly a gem. Guitars of this quality rately come on the market. The current owner purchased it directly from Contreras in 1969 and has kept it in absolutely mint condition—truly mint. The finish shows no nail marks, dents, wear, or scratches. There have been no repairs, and none are needed. The action at the 12th fret measures 3.5 mm on the sixth string and 2.5 mm on the first string, achieved without lowering the nut. The neck is perfectly straight.

As for the sound, it will transport you to another plane. The basses are deep and rich with harmonics, while the trebles have excellent body and sing sweetly, even in the highest register.