Martin 00-21 (1926)

This great-sounding 1926 Martin 00-21 has just arrived for consignment. It comes from the estate of a longtime client, for whom we've sold several very fine instruments. 1926 is generally regarded as the start of the steel-string era for Martin guitars. And while it's certainly true that retailers could order guitars set up for steel strings before then, it's also true that guitars made in the later 20's are a little beefier in their structure--built when they demand for steel-string guitars started to vastly outweigh the demand for nylon-string guitars.

This particular guitar has weathered the years extremely well. It's had very little in the way of repairs or maintenance; it's set up perfectly; and the sound exhibits the degree of gorgeousness that's got several TME staffers vying to take it home for themselves. Its responsiveness is immediate and full--the tactile robustness demanded by all fans of pre-war Martins. This guitar was last serviced by luthier, TJ Thompson, who installed new bar frets and repaired two back cracks. Other than that, this guitar is essentially untouched. All internal components, including the bridge plate and braces, are intact and original. The top shows mild play wear, but it's crack-free. The bridge is a well-made replacement, in the same pyramid-style as the original.

Our shop has inspected the guitar, freshened the setup, and installed .011-.052 custom light bronze strings. Price includes Calton Case. Payment is requested by wire transfer or check.