Martin OM-28 (1931)
Description
This lovely 1931 Martin OM-28 comes to us from a longtime client; and it hasn't been on the market for more than 40 years. Playing a pre-war Martin OM in this sort of condition is one of the true (and rare) joys of existing in this rabidly obsessed acoustic guitar niche. The perfect soft-V neck luthiers are still trying to copy. The immediate, woody response and versatility under fingers or a flatpick. And that ethereal dry-yet-complex tone ... these are the hallmarks of a great instrument, and they're all on tap in this guitar. It was made not long after the transition from banjo tuners to right-angle style machines, and carries its original large pickguard. The bridge has been replaced, but all other structural components are original. A thin maple strip has been added on to the original bridge plate, providing extra anchorage for the string ball ends. New repairs by TJ Thompson include fret dressing, setup, re-shaping of the replacement bridge to more correct specs, and addition of thin popsicle brace. A strap button was added to the bass side of the guitar long ago, and we've elected to leave it alone. This OM-28 is now playing wonderfully and sounding, well, just as anyone interested in a pre-war OM-28 would want it to sound. Plenty of power and inimitable balance across the fingerboard, with the patented fat trebles and a complete vacancy in the shrillness department. If you're looking for that textbook vintage Martin that's got the trademark gorgeous sound, and won't need any work for years to come, give us a call for a full in-hand description. Priced with 1960's era hard case.
Specs
- Brazilian rosewood back & sides
- Red spruce top
- 1 3/4" nut width
- 25.4" scale length
- 2 3/8" string spacing
- Recent repairs & setup by TJ Thompson
Video
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.