Tokai (Tokai Gakki) Instrument Buyback and Used Sales

LS80

Appraised Value: 150,000 yen

ST60 Matching Head

Appraised Value: 100,000 yen

AJB108

Appraised Value: 25,000 yen

Founded in the 1940s, Tokai Musical Instrument Manufacturing developed the “Pianica,” a keyboard harmonica.
In the 1960s, the company began manufacturing acoustic guitars. Around the same time, an electric guitar boom took hold in Japan.
Tokai Gakki began selling the “ST,” a Stratocaster-style replica, and the “LS,” a Les Paul-style replica, in 1977—a relatively late entry into the Japanese market. Both models were praised for their high level of replication accuracy and woodworking craftsmanship. The higher-end models, in particular, featured finishes like flame maple and lacquer that matched the authentic feel of the originals, earning them popularity on par with other domestic brands.
However, due to the exceptionally high accuracy of their replicas, legal action was taken against the replica models around 1983, putting production at risk.
Since then, the company has developed original models such as the “Talbo” and continues to develop and manufacture instruments as a brand that remains highly popular both domestically and internationally.

When discussing the appeal of Tokai, one simply cannot overlook the replica models produced in the 1970s and 1980s.
The Stratocaster-style “ST” series demonstrates a meticulous attention to detail, with each model featuring a lacquer finish and a matching headstock, as well as a V-shaped neck inspired by the 1950s.
Meanwhile, the Les Paul-style “LS” series also features meticulous recreations of every detail, from the exquisite curve of the archtop to the nuances of the finish colors; the higher-end models were generously crafted using carefully selected woods such as flame maple and Honduran mahogany.
Furthermore, it’s worth noting the company’s unwavering commitment to authenticity: even though hardware components like tuners and bridges are Tokai originals, they are engraved with the “Tokai” logo just like the originals.
These replica models, crafted with a level of dedication that could almost be called obsessive, were even praised at the time as “surpassing the originals.”
The replica models from the 1970s and 1980s are a testament to the craftsmanship and passion that Tokai has cultivated over the years.

The replica models produced in the 1970s and 1980s—which we’ve highlighted as one of Tokai’s charms—are crafted to be virtually indistinguishable from the originals, not only in appearance but also in the feel of the instrument when you hold it.
In terms of sound, many feature the tight, well-defined tone characteristic of Japanese-made guitars. But that’s not all—the fact that each instrument develops its own unique character through years of playing is another key part of the true essence of the Tokai sound.

Tokai continues to focus primarily on traditional models.
Many of the current models are affordably priced, offering a range of excellent options for learning the basics of electric guitar and Bass.
For this reason, Tokai’s current models are especially recommended for beginners looking to start playing guitar.
Tokai guitars from the 1970s and ’80s feature numerous models with romantic specifications that helped define the heyday of Japanese replica guitars, as well as many instruments with a commanding presence.
We highly recommend these to not only those from the generation who longed for them back then but couldn’t afford them,
but also to anyone who wants to experience firsthand the history of Japanese-made guitars and the high level of Japanese craftsmanship.