Description
A true dream guitar and a remarkable piece of history—this stunning 1931 Martin OM-28 is an absolute gem, offering an incredibly balanced, warm, and clear vintage voice. With all the coveted pre-war features—scalloped bracing, herringbone trim, and elegant snowflake inlays—it truly embodies the essence of the “holy grail” of acoustic guitars.
We are honored to have this exceptional Martin OM-28 from 1931 in our collection. The tonewoods alone are breathtaking: old-growth rosewood of a quality that today’s luthiers can only dream of, paired with an Adirondack spruce top that has gracefully aged to a golden hue. This guitar has not spent its life tucked away in a case—it has been played and loved, developing a voice that is rich, open, and full of character. The lightweight build and beautifully worn mahogany neck feel like a smooth, well-traveled banister, making it an absolute joy to play.
And the sound? It’s everything you’d expect from an early 1930s Martin OM-28—powerful, resonant, and endlessly dynamic, with remarkable projection and sustain. There’s a depth and openness to its tone that simply can’t be replicated, a testament to nearly a century of music vibrating through its wood.
For a guitar of this age, it remains in great condition, though it has received careful restoration work over the years. Several cracks have been expertly repaired, and it has undergone a neck reset (including a heel repair) and a refret to ensure optimal playability. The bridge and banjo-style tuners are later replacements, and the finish has been professionally oversprayed. Despite these changes, the guitar retains all of its magic and charm.
This is not just a collector’s piece—it’s a living, breathing instrument with history in every note, ready to inspire and make music for generations to come. It comes in a high-end modern case for optimal protection. A truly special guitar that stands as a testament to Martin’s legendary craftsmanship.