Martin 00-21 (1937)
Vintage
TME is happy to welcome this beautiful sounding 1937 Martin 00-21 to our inventory. We've always been fans of the 12-fret 00 and the spartan style-21 Martins ~ these guitars offer unrivaled tone per pound, and a handsome, stripped down aesthetic that instantly calls to mind the golden era of American guitar making. This is great instrument for buyers who evaluate tone first; and that said, not much at all has been done to this lovely 00-21. The body may have been lightly oversprayed long ago, but all structural components are original and there's only one small top crack (bass side, lower bout). Luthier Cat Fox recently performed a neck reset and refret, making a new nut and saddle in the process. The work is expert-level, and super-clean; and the guitar plays beautifully, with action an immeasurable hair over 3/32" (bass side) and 2/32" (treble side). Plenty of saddle height remains should the next owner want lower action. The sound is meaty, robust, and explosive, with terrific volume and depth of overtones. It's a great-sounding guitar, whose very minor imperfections pale in comparison to the sonic value it offers. Priced with non-original tweed hardshell case.
On consignment.
Please note: used instruments are, well, used. We pride ourselves on thoroughly vetting, and carefully photographing, each pre-owned instrument we sell, but many of them carry subtle signs of handling that can escape even the most discerning eye. If you have questions about the condition of this instrument, we invite you to call us for an in-hand description. We're here to help!
- Model: 00-21
- Serial No. 68097
- Materials: Brazilian rosewood back & sides, Red spruce top, Ebony fingerboard & bridge
- Finish: Original nitrocellulose lacquer, possible overspray
- Neck Shape: Full thickness, rounded C
- Hardware: Original tuners, new nut, saddle & frets
- Measurements: 1 7/8" Nut width, 24 7/8" Scale, 2 5/16" String spacing
- Case: Non-original tweed hardshell
Every instrument is thoroughly checked and set up before shipping fully insured via UPS with tracking to your door. We reuse boxes and materials to cut waste when they meet our protection standard.
Inspect it, play it, and if it isn't right, contact us within 48 hours of delivery to arrange a return or one-time exchange. Returns are subject to a 5% restocking fee, and the buyer covers shipping both ways.
Pricing
We price vintage instruments using current market trends and our extensive in-house sales history, ensuring each piece is accurately valued and fairly positioned.
Tasteful Restoration
When restoration is needed, we approach it with respect and restraint - always in service of preserving the instrument’s integrity and extending its musical life for decades to come.
Accurate Listings
Every vintage guitar we list is authenticated by our seasoned team and photographed in high detail, with clear, honest descriptions that show exactly what you’re buying - no surprises.
Shipping
With decades of experience shipping high-value guitars, we know how to pack and protect vintage instruments so they arrive exactly as they should: safe, sound, and ready to play.