1969 José Ramírez III (Spain), No. 3581, stamped “2a” on the label, probably because there was a visible slight discoloration on the original varnish on the back, otherwise it is indistinguishable from the 1a model in every detail.  656 mm scale, 53 mm nut, strings are spaced 44 mm on centers between 1st and 6th string, action height at the 12th fret is 2.8 mm on the bass side and 2 mm on the treble side at the 12th fret.  Strings are 8 mm above the sound board at the bridge with plenty of room to move lower.  Cedar top, Spanish cypress sides and back original varnish of catalyzed urethane, original clear golpeador.  This Ramírez flamenco is the quintessential modern flamenco guitar with catalyzed urethane finish, traditional 5 strut fan, and LOW bridge and action.  Instruments like this were used by Sabicas, Serranito and even Pace de Lucia for many of their recordings because they were so versatile, capable of being raspy when needed, or sweet and lyrical as demanded by the players.  Built with well aged and seasoned woods under controlled humidity conditions, these Ramírez instruments are literally light bulbs that never burn out.  This instrument has some minor playing and handling wear visible, mostly on the top, but there are no cracks or repairs in the wood, a remarkable record for an instrument which is nearly half a century old.  The varnish shows some minor crazing, which often shows up on some catalyzed finishes after many decades, but this in no way affects the sound nor longevity of the instrument and can be ignored.  A great value at $6,000