Explanation
Martin / 1939 D-28 "Herringbone"
Staff Comment: Inoue
The pre-war D-28 reigns as the pinnacle of masterpieces in the history of acoustic guitars. We have
now received a 1939 model, crafted during a period of dramatic transition.
As the quintessential acoustic guitar and the object of every guitarist’s desire, the “Herringbone D-28” embodies the instrument’s appeal to the utmost degree—a truly historic treasure worthy of the name.
The top is crafted from Adirondack spruce with a densely packed grain. The density of the grain alone sets it apart from the rest.
The sides and back are generously crafted from premium Brazilian rosewood (Hacalanda) with a deep, beautiful grain, allowing you to truly feel the exceptional quality of materials unique to the pre-war era.
The combination of traditional ivory-colored binding and herringbone trim that frames the body exudes a special elegance and aura found only in instruments from this era.
The headstock is equipped with rare, original shield-back Grover G111 tuners. Their classic appearance and the dignified character unique to metal parts that have weathered the years further highlight the instrument’s vintage appeal. Additionally, the original tortoiseshell-pattern pickguard, which has beautifully aged and blended with the body over time, remains firmly in place.
The most notable feature of this 1939 model lies in its specifications, which are unique to this exquisite transitional period. The neck features a wide profile with a 45mm nut width, maintaining the spacious playability characteristic of the pre-war era.This is one of the very earliest specifications, introduced just before the transition to approximately 43 mm in the middle of 1939, offering a solid grip and a powerful, resonant tone with a strong core. Furthermore, the internal structure incorporates the “rear-shifted scalloped X-bracing,” which had just been adopted at the end of the previous year. Compared to the forward-shifted period, this not only increases strength near the bridge but also significantly alters how the top wood resonates.Whereas the forward-shifted design concentrates the sound’s power near the soundhole, the rear-shifted design gives the impression that vibration is distributed evenly across the entire top. Yet, the power, depth, and richness of the sound remain intact. This is a superb guitar that allows you to experience a truly mature tone.
When you actually strum the strings, you’ll be enveloped by such overwhelming sound pressure that you’ll find yourself exclaiming, “So this is the herringbone-patterned rosewood D-28…” The deep, earth-shaking bass produced by the combination of Adirondack spruce and rosewood, along with the thick, direct tone unique to the rear-shifted design, fuse perfectly, responding with infinite directness to the player’s touch.While rich in harmonics, the contour of each individual note is astonishingly clear, and the sound is so compelling that it completely transforms the atmosphere the moment you strum a chord. The energy of the golden age is palpable the instant you pick it up, along with a quality of sound so overwhelming that no modern guitar can possibly replicate it. Please experience for yourself this supreme D-28—an embodiment of the very history of the acoustic guitar—that transcends even the phrase “a guitar for a lifetime.”
[Specifications/Included Case]
TOP: Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Rosewood
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Ebony
NECK: Mahogany
NUT WIDTH: 45mm
SCALE: 642mm
CASE: Non-Original Hard Shell Case (1950s Martin Original (GEIB))
[Repair/Modification History / Replaced Parts / Cosmetic Condition, etc.]
*Crack repairs have been made to the volute area on the back of the neck and to the top and back of the body.
*For further details regarding the condition, please contact Mr. Inoue.
*Consignment Item
[Warranty Information]
As this is a consignment item, it does not come with our store’s warranty.
Of course, after purchase, we are happy to discuss adjustments, repairs, etc. (for a fee) upon request.
Please note that this item is not eligible for our online trial service. (No returns accepted.)
Scheduled for shipment
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Warranty Information for Used Products
Please see here for detailed warranty terms:
Electric Guitars/Electric Basses/Effects Pedals/Amplifiers (Adjustment Warranty: Up to 5 years)
If your instrument malfunctions or stops producing sound after purchase, we will repair it free of charge. The warranty period varies by product.
Acoustic Guitars (Peace of Mind Warranty: Up to 6 months)
For 1 month or 6 months after purchase, we will repair any defects resulting from normal use free of charge.
Wind Instruments (Up to 1 Year)
Upon arrival, we clean the interior of the instrument, replace consumables as needed, and perform any necessary repairs and maintenance. If the instrument malfunctions or stops producing sound due to normal use, we will provide free repairs.
◯ There is no warranty on junk items.