Martin 000-28S Employee Model 1959, Natural

Not your average 000-28, but undeniably cooler. Employee model Martins were made on the factory floor during work hours by the craftsmen for personal use; with atleast two rules: No Martin logos/branding and no -41/45 pearl appointments. The neck block is stamped is "000-28S" and "JWA" ( the initials of the employee: John Arndt). As far as our research has lead us, John Arndt was once the head of quality control at Martin, and the head of wood buying. The guitar was purchased directly from John Arndt's widow, by Dave Musselwhite, and subsequently has been in private hands since. The tightly-grained Sitka Spruce and highly figured Brazilian Rosewood back/sides set show are arguably the best available. While 41/45 abalone was not permitted, this guitar has extra plys of binding, F-9 archtop style fingerboard inlay stripes, and a N.O.S. F-9 backstrip (likely out of the attic). This might be the most intricately crafted 000 model to come off the Martin factory line between 1942 and 1970. While there is no logo on the headstock, major fans of the Nazareth brand will know this 1950s craftsmanship could not be found on any guitar other than a Martin. Like other employee models, the date of manufacture is written on the underside of the top, the the bass side of the bridge plate, as "MADE 3-6-59." While 66 years old, this guitar is in remarkable condition and was recently given a neck reset and bridge reglue. Play it or store it as museum piece, this one of a kind 000-28S is a sight to behold.