1970s Japanese Kimbara Classical Guitar

1970s Japanese Kimbara Classical Guitar made for F&N London. Strung with D'Addario Classic Nylon strings. 

Kimbara guitars were a line of instruments that were commissioned by the UK-based musical instrument wholesaler FCN Music. The brand was first registered on January 2, 1968, and the production of these guitars involved sourcing from various factories across the Far East. Initially, the guitars were produced in Japan, which is known for its high-quality guitar manufacturing, particularly during the 1970s.

In the late 1980s, the production of Kimbara guitars moved to Korea, and then in the late 1990s, it shifted to China. The Kimbara brand has been used on a variety of instruments, including classical, steel-strung, and electric guitars and basses. Kimbara guitars from the Japanese production era are noted for their attractive design, good build quality, and excellent tone.

Some Kimbara branded instruments were made by Takamine in their Japanese facility during the 1970s and early '80s. For example, the model N141, part of their Master series, is virtually identical to Takamine’s C-140S. These guitars were made under license alongside Takamine’s in their Japanese facility, and some had differing patterns on the binding and rosettes, but some were like for like, with only the back label distinguishing them.