Martin 00-17

Adored by songwriters seeking an intimate sound, the 00-17 is highly valued for its expressive nature. Dylan played one early in his career in the late 1950s, just one example among many others…Paul Geremia, Gillian Welch. Some bluesmen also use it. The bass is warm and rounded without being too present. The treble is soft. It’s a very responsive guitar with good sustain. Perfect for singing or simply picking. This particular guitar is in good condition, but it has been played. There’s a small repair on the side, and a tiny patch on the back. The back of the neck has been oversparyed because there was no finish left…yes, it’s been played, but there’s no damage here. I just replaced tuner buttons because the old ones were unusable. They are faithful reproductions made by Willi Henkes. Exactly what vintage Kluson knobs would be like new. The playability is excellent; the guitar has had a neck reset, and the action is very comfortable. It comes in its vintage case, which has been well-worn but is still there and does the job. An instrument with real character, a world away from the reissues flooding the market.

1951.

74 years old.