This is a unique 1902 Martin Style 2-21 that has undergone an extensive, historically sympathetic restoration. When I acquired the instrument, it was in extremely poor condition, requiring significant structural work to return it to a stable, playable state.
A new Brazilian rosewood rim was fabricated, then relined and kerfed to restore the body structure. I was able to preserve the original headblock, which retains the original Martin serial number and factory stamp, as shown in the photos.
The original Brazilian rosewood back was also preserved, along with all of its original back braces. And stamped center reinforcement strip. The back braces have been carefully reglued, and the various cracks in the back have been professionally repaired and stabilized.
The guitar retains its original top; however, due to extensive cracking, it has been "double-topped." This means a new Adirondack spruce backing top has been glued beneath the original soundboard and thickness plain to correct size to reinforce and preserve it. The top has also been re-braced using accurately sized braces modeled after the original Martin bracing.
Additional restoration work includes:
New ebony pyramid bridge
New bone saddle
Professional neck reset to restore proper neck angle and playability
Complete body refinish in aged nitrocellulose lacquer, carefully toned to blend with the original neck
Original neck retained with its original Martin stamp
Aftermarket tuning machines
Original bar frets professionally leveled, crowned, and dressed
I have included detailed restoration photos so prospective buyers can see the extent and quality of the work performed.
As expected for a 124-year-old instrument, the guitar shows numerous small nicks, chips, dings, dents, and other cosmetic blemishes consistent with its age and history. Please review the photos carefully, as they are part of the description.
The guitar includes an aftermarket hard case.
If you have any questions or would like additional photos or information, please feel free to ask.
This is a unique 1902 Martin Style 2-21 that has undergone an extensive, historically sympathetic restoration. When I acquired the instrument, it was in extremely poor condition, requiring significant structural work to return it to a stable, playable state.
A new Brazilian rosewood rim was fabricated, then relined and kerfed to restore the body structure. I was able to preserve the original headblock, which retains the original Martin serial number and factory stamp, as shown in the photos.
The original Brazilian rosewood back was also preserved, along with all of its original back braces. And stamped center reinforcement strip. The back braces have been carefully reglued, and the various cracks in the back have been professionally repaired and stabilized.
The guitar retains its original top; however, due to extensive cracking, it has been "double-topped." This means a new Adirondack spruce backing top has been glued beneath the original soundboard and thickness plain to correct size to reinforce and preserve it. The top has also been re-braced using accurately sized braces modeled after the original Martin bracing.
Additional restoration work includes:
New ebony pyramid bridge
New bone saddle
Professional neck reset to restore proper neck angle and playability
Complete body refinish in aged nitrocellulose lacquer, carefully toned to blend with the original neck
Original neck retained with its original Martin stamp
Aftermarket tuning machines
Original bar frets professionally leveled, crowned, and dressed
I have included detailed restoration photos so prospective buyers can see the extent and quality of the work performed.
As expected for a 124-year-old instrument, the guitar shows numerous small nicks, chips, dings, dents, and other cosmetic blemishes consistent with its age and history. Please review the photos carefully, as they are part of the description.
The guitar includes an aftermarket hard case.
If you have any questions or would like additional photos or information, please feel free to ask.
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