Okay guys,
This is apmechling, one of the few people on eBay that has been offering vintage Japanese Tokais. First, I want to say that I have really learned a lot from this website and enjoyed your dedication to learning as much as you can about Tokais and your love of sharing the wealth of knowledge you've collected. I always have good things to say about everything here, but I just want to caution you for questioning my honesty and knowledge about the Japanese Tokais... I visit Tokyo on a regular basis and have seen literally hundreds of vintage Tokais in collections and a few for sale. Many even you have not seen or heard of before. Just because you haven't seen one before doesn't mean it is a "Frankenstein" or that is has been modified to sell for a big ticket.
The '79 Springysound I had for sale is 100% original. I know because I bought it from the original owner. As another member has posted, he also has one similar to mine and has cleared me on that (thanks!). I listed it as a '64 because of the neck style, but it was a difficult decision. It is kind of a '54/'64 hybrid, I guess. Anyway, I have 113 stellar feedbacks there and do not hype up my guitars. I spend big bucks on the best Tokais I find and am proud to talk them up because they are the best Tokais in Japan, and are handpicked from many. I won't buy one that is questionable. I know I still have a lot to learn, but I was disappointed to see negative references to me and my guitars. I am probably one of only a handful of people who have access to these guitars and want to help you guys out, because, God knows you've helped me out. I look forward to helping you along for answers to the mysterious Tokai history of guitars, but please, don't question my guitars. They are all original, uless stated otherwise, and if I don't remove a pickguard on some of my guitars to take pictures, it's easier to say I didn't want to do it keep it in original condition than it is to say that, heck, I get 10 vintage Tokais a week and am too lazy to open them all up to see what's underneath. After having over 100 of these guitars, you just kind of know what's original and what's not. Those guitars I am selling on eBay are just as stated. I would be happy to hook any of you up with info. on mine or get you any model you want, any year. I just wanted to say "Hello" for the first time after visiting your site regularly and to just let you know how I feel about things. I'd love to keep referring your site to friends, as you've got one of the best sites around. Thanks for your ears and, again, let me know how I can assist you in your search for answers - APM