1966 Martin • 000-28
The 000 body type has been one of Martins longest standing and varied models, well known amongst players like Big Billy Broonzy and Eric Clapton as being the choice finger style instrument. Essentially the same as an OM depending on the era and variations each might have, these small body classics put out a lot of volume but each have their own unique voice.
This one here dating to 1966 is one such example, having a beautifully balanced bass response, chiming bright trebles and nice midrange sustain. Perfectly suitable for finger style, even dense chord work sounds nice and pronounced.
This example comes to us in great shape for the next player or collector. Cosmetically this is in great shape, with only general surface wear present, and some well done necessary past repair work.
The body is built with a fine Sitka Spruce top, and Brazilian Rosewood back & sides. The wood used in this example is truly exceptional, with beautifully straight grain in the Brazilian (with a nice book match in the back) and fairly wide grain in the Sitka. The binding is in great shape along all edges, with mostly only surface level scratches present. The finish is clean with expected checking throughout, mild surface scratches and a few bruises. Looking internally, one will notice the professionally installed cleat maintaining the subtle pick guard crack visible near the treble side waist bout. Another cleat is located near the bass side waist, with the crack visible near the binding. A small but sealed crack is visible in the treble side waist. The scalloped bracing and original small maple bridge plate are present and in very good shape. Some pick wear is present near the treble strings on the south side of the rosette.
This example features the 24.9" scale length, which is sometimes favorable for comfort & the ability to use slightly heavier strings when preferred (it is currently strung with 12-53 PB strings). It has the 1.75" nut width, and the C profile measures which measures about .80" thick at the first position and about 1" at the tenth fret before the curvature of the heel. Very well set, it plays nicely with low action, which measures 6/64" in height at the twelfth fret on the sixth string & a hair over 4/64" in height on the first. The saddle appears original, slightly shaved down still with plenty of height, with about 6/64" is visible over the slot. While there is no real evident indicators of a past neck reset, its possible it had been addressed. The neck is straight with about 1/64" of relief at the midway point of the 7th fret, with very very mild fall off at the fingerboard extension - as noted before, this doesn't affect the play-ability or setup. No significant fret wear, this instrument was re fretted at some point in its life, with only slightly deeper slots cut into the fingerboard. The profile of the neck is clean with plenty of natural wear, primarily in the first position, with a small ding at the tip of the volute. Towards the heel (near the tenth position), there is evidence the finish may have been touched up - really only visible with a black light. Original Grover tuners are present and functional just as they should be.
Newer hardshell case.
Weighs 4.4lbs.
102722-210677-8701