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  • 1016 W 41st St., Sioux Falls, SD 57105  |  CONTACT
 



For sale we have a Cat's Eyes guitar made in Japan by Tokai in 1978. Tokai Gakki Co. LTD was the first distributor for C.F. Martin in Japan, in addition to being a fine instrument manufacturer. This specific guitar looks like a close reproduction of a Martin HD-28 with some nice upgrades, including a diamond shaped volute and fancy inlay on the headstock and neck. Standard features include a 1-piece mahogany neck, ebony fretboard and bridge, spruce top, and rosewood back and sides. The workmanship and materials are top notch.

The instrument is in need of a neck reset, and we are selling it 'as is' for considerably less that we think it would fetch once that work is performed. 

The mahogany neck is in very good shape, with one small blemish on the back and no dents. There are some minor marks and scratches on the face of the headstock, with a little bit of cloudiness on one edge in the finish and around the posts. Frets show some wear, mostly between nut and 5th fret. Fret life left is around 90% in that area, with the higher frets showing little wear. The ebony FB has a few string winding marks under the low E string. 

The rosewood back and sides are tight grained and very beautiful, with a few minor marks and superficial scratches. There are no cracks, dents, or other issues. The binding has a nice naturally aged tint to it, and is well-adhered with with no signs of rot. The herringbone middle strip is a good look.

The spruce top is clean, with a few minor marks and superficial scratches you have to search for. There are no cracks, dents or other issues. The herringbone purfling looks great and stands out nicely. 

Neck angle aside, condition of this vintage instrument is impressive. Sound wise, it is as good if not better than a comparable Martin model. As is, it would be a great guitar for slide or the bluegrass player who likes his action on the high side. With a neck reset, it will be a great guitar for anyone.