In the 1920s, Martin was quietly refining what would become the blueprint for the American steel-string guitar. The Style-21 instruments—with their elegant appointments and premium tonewoods—offered serious musicians a more understated alternative to the flashier Style 28s. One of 155 made in 1927, this 0-21 is an exceptional example from that golden era. This small-bodied, 12-fret guitar channels the light build, responsiveness, and musicality that have made prewar Martins legendary.
Originally shipped to Canada and stamped "Made in USA" on the back of the headstock, this 0-21 dates to February 25, 1927, according to Martin historian Greig Hutton. It was recently sold through Folkway Music in Canada before making its way to Colorado. While at Folkway, Mark Stutman and his crew optimized this guitar for modern playability. They set it up with a new replica bridge, reset the neck, and refretted the fingerboard with a 20" radius bar frets that have rounded crowns so they play nice and smooth. Folkway also repaired a small end block crack, likely a result of shipping with the endpin installed at some point in the past. The work is very neat and virtually undetectable. The finish is original throughout, but there is a minor French polish touch-up near the endpin. The nut and tuners are original, and all internal components—including the braces and bridge plate—remain healthy and intact.
The Adirondack Spruce top is lightly X-braced and paired with Brazilian rosewood back and sides that show the saw marks typical of '20s Martins. When this 0-21 was made, Style-21 guitars were bound with Brazilian Rosewood. Along with the Herringbone rosette, the binding sets this one apart from other Martins. The neck has a soft V profile with low shoulders, measuring 1-13/16" at the nut and .832" deep at the first fret. Scale length is 24.75", and string spacing at the bridge is a fingerstyle-friendly 2-3/8".
It terms of sound, this 0-21 is pure magic. Its light build gives it quick, touch-sensitive response with a wide dynamic range. The voice is balanced and nuanced, with a dry, woody character and clarity across the register. The bass is open and defined, the midrange has that smoky, vintage Martin warmth. The trebles are thick and round without sounding thin or harsh. In your hands, it feels almost impossibly lightweight, and as soon as you touch the strings it comes alive with sound.
Because of the lack of a pickguard, this 1927 Martin 0-21 shows some honest playwear and pick marks on the top, evidence of a guitar that is too good not to play (see photos). Despite that, it finds us in impressive cosmetic condition. This 12-fret is a well-preserved gem that plays and sounds. It includes a modern TKL tweed hardshell case that has a noticeable nicotine smell.