1935 Martin R-17 Mahogany

Here is a 1935 Martin R-17 all mahogany arch-top in very good condition. It was first cataloged in 1935 per the Martin technical reference. The first thing that I notice about this 00 size arch top is that it has the same neck feel as my 1935 000-18 except that a tad smaller nut at 1.7″. The action is at 3/32″ on the low E string at the 12th and the high E is at 2.5 32nds. The production totals are 331 made in 1935 and total overall production of 940 R-17’s. The tone and playability surprised me – it’s louder than I assumed and very easy to chord and finger.

It has the original tuners, bridge, tailpiece, and pickguard. I black-lighted the entire guitar and the finish appears to be all original. The HSC has been identified as a possible ’35-’42 Harptone case before they did double diamonds and is in very good condition. It is a bit larger than the guitar and was probably for a Martin F-7 archtop of F9. A dread will not fit but a 000 or 0M size will with a bit of play. The case measures 41-7/8″ L x 11-1/2″ upper bout x 151/2″ lower bout.