1960 Antonio Mateu Ramis No. 215 Classical Guitar – Barcelona, Spain

Offered for sale is a rare and exceptionally responsive 1960 Antonio Mateu Ramis No. 215, handcrafted in Barcelona, Spain.

Antonio Mateu Ramis was an independent Barcelona luthier active during the golden era of Spanish guitar making. Working from his workshop on Carrer Rosselló, Mateu built a limited number of instruments that reflected the traditions of the Barcelona school, drawing inspiration from the great Spanish makers who preceded him. While less widely known than Ramírez, Fleta, or Simplicio, surviving Mateu instruments have developed a reputation among players for their outstanding tonal qualities, lightweight construction, and authentic Spanish character.

This guitar is serial number 215, placing it among a documented sequence of Mateu instruments built around 1960. The guitar features traditional Spanish construction, a responsive solid spruce top, and an extremely lightweight build that contributes to its remarkable voice.

The sound is what immediately sets this instrument apart. The guitar produces a mature, open, and expressive voice with singing trebles, warm basses, and excellent separation between voices. Notes speak effortlessly with very little right-hand effort, while maintaining strong projection and clarity throughout the fingerboard. The instrument possesses the dry immediacy and responsiveness often associated with the finest mid-century Spanish guitars.

Playability is set up more for classical playing but can easily be lowers to 2mm - 2.5 mm for flamenco. The tap Plate was professionally removed but one can easily have one put on. I can imagine how great this will sound as a flamenco. It sounds so good for Bach and any Spanish Classical composer you can think of I didn't want to change it. The neck profile is somewhere between a “C” shape and “D” shape and is very comfortable.

The guitar has been refinished at some point in its life and is fitted with replacement engraved tuners. There is also a professionally repaired side crack on the treble side measuring approximately three inches. These factors have been reflected in the pricing and do not detract from the instrument's outstanding musical performance.

Vintage Spanish guitars from lesser-known master builders often represent some of the best values in the classical guitar market. For players seeking the sound, responsiveness, and character of a mature handmade Spanish instrument without entering five-figure territory, this Antonio Mateu Ramis is a compelling opportunity.