Martin 017 12 Fret 1931

The 17 series is one of Martin's most beloved and long-running models, part of the catalog since 1856 and featuring, from 1918 onwards, the all-mahogany construction that gives the model its own character. This 017 from 1931 is a fine example of this: a guitar that carries nearly a century of musical history with it.

While most Martins from that period combine a spruce top with mahogany or rosewood, the 17 series opts for an all-mahogany construction, covering the top, back, and sides. This gives the guitar a warmer, darker tonal character than its contemporaries, with slightly less shine in the highs but all the more body and depth in the midrange. The 12-fret neck construction and the slotted headstock are characteristic of the build style from before the major transition to 14-fret models that Martin introduced in the early 1930s, and give the guitar its typical vintage character.

This 017 is in very good condition for its age. The top and the back and sides of the body have repaired cracks, and the bridge, saddle, and bridge plate have been replaced. A neck reset has also been performed. These are modifications you would expect on a guitar of nearly 95 years, and which simultaneously ensure that this instrument remains optimally playable. The signs of wear left by the years give the guitar its unmistakable weathered look. And, not entirely unimportant, it sounds fantastic!