first made in Japan

Information about Emperador Guitars that were

made in Japan during the years of 1966-1969

EMPERADOR GUITARS

1966-1969

Made in Japan and imported by Jack Westheimer

Depending upon what documentation one reads, Emperador guitars were manufactured by either Teisco, Kawai, Kasuga, Matsumoku, Hiyashi, or any combination thereof. They were made in Japan until early 1970’something. This page is dedicated to Emperador electric and acoustic guitars that without a doubt were manufactured in Japan from 1966 through 1969.

The information that accompanies the following pictures is copied from a 1969 Emperador Catalog, a digital copy (pdf) of which can be purchased and emailed to the buyer for $2.99. See details below.

Model E-302 Violin Shaped Electric Bass

Emperador Red (catalog cover) – 1969 Yellow Sunburst – 1966 Natural - 1966

Model E-200 Semi Acoustic Electric Guitar (335 copy)

Yellow Sunburst(catalog page) – 1969 Yellow Sunburst – 1967 Red Sunburst – 1968 Green Sunburst – 1968 Emperador Red - 1968

Musicians Who Played Emperador E-200’s

Perhaps the most talented and most well known musician to play a 1960’s Emperador E-200 was Carl Wilson of the Beach Boys. Although best known for his blonde Gibson 335, Gibson 12 string, and signature Rickenbacker guitars, Wilson’s autographed E-200 is on display at the Hard Rock Café in Miami (see picture below). According to the Hard Rock Café Memorabilia Archivist, Carl played rhythm with this guitar during the Beach Boys Wembley Arena concert of June 6, 1980. Below is a picture of Carl playing an Emperador E-200.

1969 Emperador Catalog for sale. Purchase a digital copy of the 1969 Emperador catalog for $2.99. The catalog consists of 8 pages detailing Emperador acoustic and electric guitars and will be emailed to you upon receipt of payment via Paypal. Click here for instructions on how to order.

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