Martin OM-21 1993 – Gloss Top with Satin Back and Sides

Vintage = 30 years old

Condition is very good/near excellent, and has a pickup installed for amplification. Includes Original Hard Shell Case. There is some pick wear on the finish at the neck-side of the pick guard visible in pictures.

Description:

The Martin OM-21 from 1993 offers a blend of traditional styling with high-quality tonewoods and solid construction. The OM-21 delivers exceptional tone and performance.

This guitar has excellent projection, clarity, and articulation, well suited for fingerstyle players and those looking for a more balanced, responsive sound compared to larger-bodied guitars. The OM-21 also stands out for its comfortable body shape, making it easier to play for long periods, especially for players who prefer smaller to medium-sized guitars.

Specifications:

• Body Style: Orchestra Model (OM)

• Shape: Slightly smaller than a dreadnought, but with great projection and clarity.

• Top: Solid Sitka Spruce

• Sitka spruce is known for its bright, clear tone with a broad dynamic range.

• Back and Sides: Solid East Indian Rosewood

• This combination produces a warm, resonant tone with deep bass and crisp treble.

• Neck: Select Hardwood (typically Mahogany)

• Known for stability and smooth playability.

• Fretboard: Ebony

• Ebony provides a smooth, fast-playing surface with a bright tone.

• Scale Length: 25.4 inches (645 mm)

• Standard for many Martin guitars, offering excellent string tension and playability.

• Nut Width: 1 11/16 inches (43 mm)

• A narrower nut width, comfortable for both fingerstyle and flatpicking.

• Bracing: Scalloped X-bracing

• Helps to enhance resonance and tonal balance, making the guitar responsive and full-sounding.

• Binding: Black and white purfling (often with a contrasting rosette)

• Aesthetic detailing that gives the guitar a refined look without being overly flashy.

• Pickguard: Tortoise-style plastic

• Adds to the visual appeal and is durable.

• Finish: Gloss (on the top) with satin back and sides

• A classic Martin finish that balances durability with a warm, open sound.

• Electronics: Typically none (unless factory-installed later)

• Acoustic guitar only, though aftermarket pickups or microphones could have been installed.

• Total Length: Approximately 40 inches (101.6 cm)

Sound Profile:

The OM-21 delivers a very well-balanced sound with a focus on midrange clarity, making it an ideal choice for fingerpicking or flatpicking. It has a more focused, articulate sound compared to the larger dreadnought models, with excellent sustain and tonal clarity. The solid Sitka spruce top combined with East Indian rosewood sides and back provides a sweet, dynamic range that shines both in solo performance and in ensemble settings.

Build Quality and Construction:

Being a Martin, the OM-21 is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The quality of materials and craftsmanship in the 1993 model are consistent with Martin’s reputation for building long-lasting, professional-grade instruments.

This model is perfect for players who enjoy versatile, responsive acoustic guitars that excel in both studio and live performance situations. The OM-21 is particularly popular among folk, country, blues, and light rock musicians due to its well-rounded tonal properties and comfortable body size.