Jose Ramirez, 1989

The Ramirez Centenario models occupy a special place in the long history of the José Ramirez workshop. Built in 1989 to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the Ramirez family’s guitar making tradition, these instruments were intended as a commemorative expression of the workshop’s finest work at the time. For the occasion, Ramirez selected exceptional materials and incorporated a number of decorative details that set the Centenario apart from the standard production models of the period.

This 1989 example features a cedar top paired with Brazilian rosewood back and sides, a wood combination that delivers the classic Ramirez voice: deep, rounded basses, warm and expressive trebles, and a rich overtone character that gives the guitar its unmistakably Spanish color. The Centenario models were built using specially selected woods that had been set aside in the workshop for many years, and this example is no exception, with striking Brazilian rosewood and the elegant craftsmanship one expects from the Ramirez workshop during this period.

Sound

The tonal character is quintessential Ramirez. The cedar top produces a full, rounded sound with strong fundamental presence, while the Brazilian rosewood adds depth, complexity, and a lush overtone profile. Basses are broad and authoritative, providing the kind of foundation that makes Romantic and Spanish repertoire feel particularly natural on this instrument. The trebles are warm yet clear, with the singing quality that players often associate with the best Ramirez guitars from the late 20th century. Overall, the voice is rich, powerful, and unmistakably Spanish in character, with a sense of depth and warmth that fills the room easily.

Playability

One of the most pleasant surprises of this instrument is its playability. While some Ramirez guitars from this era can occasionally present challenges related to neck angle or setup, this example is an excellent player. The action is comfortably low and responsive, and importantly, there is still ample saddle height remaining, leaving plenty of room for further adjustment if desired. The neck profile feels substantial yet comfortable, and the slightly longer 665 mm scale length provides a touch of extra tension and projection without sacrificing comfort. The result is a guitar that feels both powerful and easy under the hands.

As a commemorative model, the Centenario features several distinctive visual elements that elevate it above the workshop’s standard models of the time. These include a decorative heelcap inlay, refined purfling and rosette work, and an ornamented headstock with inlaid detailing, all executed with the precision and elegance that helped establish the Ramirez workshop as one of the most influential guitar makers of the 20th century. The Brazilian rosewood used for the back and sides is particularly beautiful, with deep color and striking grain, and the guitar is fitted with high-quality Scheller tuners that provide smooth, precise tuning.

Specifications

Model: Centenario
Back & Sides: Brazilian Rosewood
Case: Hardshell case included
Condition: Great overall for age; one professionally repaired back crack, stable

This guitar remains in great overall condition for its age. There is a repaired crack on the back, which has been professionally addressed and is stable. Aside from normal signs of careful use over the years, the instrument presents very well and remains structurally sound. Most importantly, it plays beautifully and functions exactly as a great concert instrument should.