This is the Guild Starfire III made in 1967.
The color is a rare black.
Recently, the standard color has been reissued, but originally, the black and emerald green were option colors with special names, 'Black Fire' and 'Emerald Star,' due to their rarity.
Particularly, regarding the single cutaway version of the Starfire III in black, I have not seen another unit on the market in the last 20 years that I have been observing.
(When searched online, not even an image appears, so I suspect maybe this is the only existing unit.)
The label clearly states 'Starfire III Black,' confirming it is not a refinish but the original finish.
Since this is such a rare model with no known comparisons, I cannot clearly state the market price, but I remember that at the time of purchase (about 20 years ago), it was roughly 100,000 yen more than the standard color pricing.
As for the condition, there are buckle scratches on the back of the body, some dings, and some fret depressions. Aside from typical use, there are no particular issues, but there is visible wear corresponding to its age, so I ask those seeking a like-new condition or lacking an understanding of vintage guitars to refrain from bidding.
I have used this guitar without problems in studios and live performances.
I believe this is undoubtedly the only opportunity to acquire an original Starfire III Black, so anyone who has been looking for it should consider this chance.
It is also highly recommended for those looking for semi-hollow guitars like the Gibson ES-335 or Epiphone Casino.
Due to work commitments, shipping will only be handled on weekends, so depending on the timing of the winning bid, there may be a delay in shipping. Thank you for your understanding.
This is sold "as is" with no returns or cancellations allowed.
(Additional update on February 6, 2026 at 12:19)
This item is a Guild Starfire.
It is a semi-hollow/full acoustic guitar that is often compared with the semi-acoustic guitars represented by the Gibson ES-335, as well as the Epiphone Casino, Sheraton, Riviera, ES-330, and ES-175 series.
This model is also recommended for those influenced by 60s rock, mods, and British Invasion guitar styles, along with those who prefer the classic look of Rickenbacker guitars.
The 1967 Guild Starfire III in rare black finish represents a significant piece of guitar history, particularly for collectors of vintage semi-hollow models. Known for its association with the 60s rock era and British Invasion, this model, especially in its limited colors like 'Black Fire,' is exceedingly rare, with no comparable units noted in the last two decades. While the condition reflects typical vintage wear, its functionality and authenticity as an original finish make it highly coveted among enthusiasts. This instrument encapsulates Japan's legacy in quality craftsmanship, further enhancing its desirability in today's collector market.
