Handmade and signed by Toshiro Kato who was considered the leading Yamaha Custom Shop luthier in the 70s. The condition of this guitar is unbelievable considering it's 46 years old now. It's very clean with just a few minor signs of use, hard to even see on the pictures. Looks like it hasn't been played much at all. It has always been kept in a room with about 45% humidity at 25 degrees (75F). The action is medium to low, comfortable to play. Set up with Aquila Sugar for trebles and D'Addario EJ45LP for basses.
The tone wood that was used for the top of this guitar is Japanese Ezo Spruce. Ezo spruce grows in the high mountains of Hokkaido island. Harvesting of this type of spruce has been banned by the Japanese government. There are some small old stocks still available in Japan but to commission a guitar with Ezo spruce top nowadays would cost thousands. The back is from a two piece book-matched Honduran rosewood with beautiful, even grain. In that period of time, the GC models were inspired by Spanish guitar design and sound.
This hand made GC-15M would compare in quality to modern Custom Shop Yamaha guitars that range from $6000 to $8000. It has been tested by time and shows no issues. The sound is very rich and resonant. Equally good for recording or performance. A great addition to a pro player's collection.
Specs. Years sold 1974-1979 Top High grade AAAA Solid Ezo Spruce Finish Lacquer Back / Sides Solid Indian Rosewood Neck Honduras Mahogany Fingerboard Ebony Bridge Jacaranda (Brazilian Rosewood) String Length 660 mm (26')
