1963 Martin 00-16C Classical Guitar

Martin classicals are not everywhere but they were relatively popular in the '60s and early '70s. This one shares the same body shape as Martin's 1920s-era gut/nylon-stringers but swaps extra-light x-bracing and a pin bridge for classical-style fan bracing and a tie-block bridge with neat, rounded ends.

This and similar models were made into the '70s, but the earlier ones are my favorites. Their scale length is a little shorter and the build is a little lighter than the late '60s/early '70s versions. They feel more like "folk classicals" than "concert classicals" in the way they handle. Compared to a "concert classical," these instruments sound a bit more airy and to the point to me and because of their clean tone they're great for fingerpicking or strumming behind a singer.

This one was here for minor repairs and adjustments and I was happy to have it through the shop.

Repairs included: saddle/saddle slot mods, fret level/dress, restring, and setup.

Made by: Martin

Model: 00-16C

Made in: Nazareth, PA, USA

Serial number: 192184

Top wood: solid spruce

Back & sides wood: solid mahogany

Bracing type: fan

Bridge: rosewood

Fretboard: rosewood

Neck wood: mahogany

Tone: clean, airy, sweet, direct

Suitable for: folk, country, old-time (in certain situations), fingerpicking

Action height at 12th fret: 3/32” overall (fast, spot-on)
String gauges: D'Addario Pro-Arte lights

Neck shape: medium-big C/V

Board radius: flat

Truss rod: non-adjustable

Neck relief: straight

Fret style: medium

Scale length: 25 1/4"

Nut width: 1 15/16"

String spacing at nut: 1 11/16"

String spacing at bridge: 2 5/16"

Body length: 19 1/2"

Body width: 14"

Body depth: 4 1/8"

Weight: 3 lb 0 oz

Condition notes: overall very clean and crack-free save minor usewear throughout -- light scratches here and there. It's all-original save a bit of modification to the saddle area.