njstoll

Venturas are an interesting story. Prior to Bruno being added to the label, Venturas were usually built in Japan. Like many labels of that era, it depends who built the guitar. Some of the models I've heard were crafted by Sadao Yairi (The uncle of the famed Kazao Yairi (Alverez). Sadao made several brands of his own and would contract with Americans for private label guitars. Sadao guitars are legendary for their quality. Supposedly his access to tone woods was shrouded in mystery as well; as his family had a secret stash that was seasoned for decades. As for your guitar, who knows, but if it is a Yairi, Sadao usually used the Japanese Emperor Dating system. Add 28 years to the first 2 numbers of your guitar serial number. Example: 50234 would date the guitar to 1978. I hope that helps.