Proudly manufactured in Nazareth, Pa., the Martin 16-Series are dependable, hard-working guitars that are sold at prices that don't break the bank. In the late '90s, Martin offered a series of different Special Edition 16-Series (marked with the "SP") with higher-end features. Because these Special Editions still had the same bolt-on mortise and tenon neck joint, they were just as accessible as there other 16-Series models.
This SPD-16TR was made in 1997, and it features a dreadnought body with a Spruce top and East Indian Rosewood back and sides. This tried-and-true wood complement produces a powerful voice with shimmering high end and impressive bass response. While some later 16-Series iterations don't have genuine hardwood fingerboards, this D-16RGT has a nice-looking Rosewood fingerboard and Rosewood bridge.
Because it is a Special Edition, this SPD-16TR has unique appointments and a label signed by C.F. Martin, IV. It has an Abalone rosette, long-pattern Squares and Diamonds fingerboard inlays, and two matching diamond inlays on the bridge. Most rosewood Martins have white binding, but this one has tortoise-pattern binding that blends in beautifully with the Rosewood. Add in a multi-colored back-strip, full-body gloss lacquer finish, and gol? Why not?
This 1997 Martin SPD-16TR finds us with minimal signs of play and use. No repairs, no issues—not too much to argue with here! There is a gold strap button installed on the neck heel, and the previous owner added some fancy Cocobolo bridge pins. It plays nicely, and it sounds like a proper Martin dreadnought. Great guitar!