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Average Price: $3,350

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$200

$601+

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Description

Step back in time with the 1959 Martin OO-17, a quintessential piece of musical history that has captured the hearts of guitar enthusiasts for decades. Crafted during the golden era of acoustic guitar production, this steel-string acoustic guitar is renowned for its rich, warm tone and timeless appeal. The OO-17 features a solid mahogany body, providing deep, resonant sound that is as captivating today as it was over sixty years ago. This model delivers a perfect balance between playability and tonal richness, making it a favorite among both collectors and active musicians.

The 1959 Martin OO-17 is a remarkable embodiment of Martin's dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Its compact size offers comfort and ease for fingerstyle players, while its impressive projection ensures that it holds its own in any setting. The non-cutaway design maintains the guitar's vintage aesthetic and contributes to its robust acoustics. With a rosewood fingerboard and bridge, the OO-17 offers a smooth playing experience, inviting you to explore its resonant depths and expressive tonal palette.

Whether you're a collector looking to own a piece of history or a musician in search of a distinctive sound, the 1959 Martin OO-17 stands out as an exceptional choice. This guitar not only offers a direct link to the past but also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Martin guitars.

Key Features:

  • Year: 1959
  • Solid mahogany body and neck
  • Rosewood fingerboard and bridge
  • Non-cutaway design
  • Renowned for its rich and warm tone
  • Compact and comfortable size suitable for fingerstyle playing

Product specs

Brand Martin
Model 00-17
Finish Natural
Year 1946 - 1960
Made In United States
Categories Concert Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape 00
Color Family Natural
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Model Family Martin 00-17
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Series Martin 16 / 17 Series, Martin Post-War Era
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Mahogany

FAQs

What is the tonal characteristic of the 1959 Martin OO-17 due to its mahogany top?

The 1959 Martin OO-17, with its all-mahogany construction, offers a warm, mellow tone with a strong midrange presence. This makes it ideal for fingerstyle playing and genres where a balanced, rich sound is desired.

How does the 00 body shape of the 1959 Martin OO-17 affect its sound and playability?

The 00 body shape of the 1959 Martin OO-17 provides a comfortable playing experience, offering a focused sound with excellent projection and clarity. It's well-suited for both fingerstyle and light strumming.

Is the 1959 Martin OO-17 suitable for live performances without amplification?

The 1959 Martin OO-17, lacking an active preamp or pickup, is best suited for intimate settings or studio use unless amplified with external equipment. Its natural projection is ideal for small venues or acoustic sessions.

What type of strings should be used on the 1959 Martin OO-17 for optimal sound?

The 1959 Martin OO-17 is designed for steel strings, which complement its mahogany construction by enhancing its warm, resonant tone. Light to medium gauge strings are recommended to balance playability and sound quality.

How does the mahogany neck of the 1959 Martin OO-17 influence its playability?

The mahogany neck of the 1959 Martin OO-17 offers a smooth playing experience with a comfortable grip, contributing to its overall warm tone and making it a favorite for players who appreciate vintage-style neck profiles.

Reviews

PROS

  • Produces a full, rich sound ideal for various musical applications

  • Lighter, less bass-heavy tone compared to larger models like dreadnoughts

  • High-quality refinishing and neck reset enhance playability and aesthetics

  • Mahogany body offers a vintage yet modern feel, appealing for collectors and players alike

  • Meticulous restoration work preserves its original beauty and craftsmanship

  • Comfortable neck design, suitable for those who prefer modern-style necks

CONS

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about 1959 Martin OO-17.

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for solo fingerpicking and recording; lacks volume for band use but can be played harder to compensate.

    Source
  • The 00 size is favored by larger users for fingerstyle, though the 000 is noted for versatility, accommodating both fingerstyle and flat-picking.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Owners recommend using silk and steel light strings to avoid needing a neck reset.

    Source
  • It's suggested to keep a hygrometer in the case and house to maintain optimal humidity levels.

    Source

User experience

  • Guitar is shared between siblings, highlighting its sentimental value and durability over decades.

    Source
  • Despite being over 50 years old, it remains in playable condition and retains a pleasant tone.

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  • Owners find the smaller size of 0 and 00 models encourages frequent play, particularly for fingerstyle musicians.

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Comparisons

  • The Martin 0-18 is noted for having more depth than the 000, offering a richer bottom end.

    Source
  • A Taylor 414ce owner found the smaller 0-18 size more appealing due to its compactness, especially for smaller players.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Eric Clapton uses 1959 Martin OO-17

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Christies

Eric Clapton said that he bought this guitar "..for nostalgic reasons.." It reminded him of "...one Paul Samwell Smith had in the Yardbirds although his was a Guild..."

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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