Martin Style 5

[ChrisR]

Can anyone tell me if 1750 for a Martin Style 5 with a refinished neck and a repaired diamond volute?

Thanks,
Christopher

[Jim Garber]

ChrisR:
I was trying to igure out whether 1750 was the price or the serial number. If it is the serial number, then it was made around 1906. If the price, then it is reasonable, tho the repairs would have made its value considerably less: VG Price guide says around $2000-2500 for a style 5 in exc condition.

Have you played this one in person? Does it sound and play well? If the work was done well and the instrument is in good structural shape, then that seems reasonable. Of course, you may find a lowerend, simpler Martin bowlback that may sound just as nice for much less money, but then again you wouldn't have the work of art that is a style 5.

Was this offered by a dealer or individual?

Jim

[ChrisR]

Sorry, it's $1750 dollars and it's a 1904. It is being sold by a dealer.

-Chris

[Jim Garber]

I would say that if it is a good player and you are pleased with both the sound and the setup, then the price is fair. These are pretty rare on one hand, but are not exactly flying off the shelves on the other. If this has been at that dealer for some time, you may have some bargaining power.

BTW pics of some Martins (and other bowlbacks) can be found here.

Jim

[Eugene]

My opinion of such stuff can be simply stated as "yummy."

[Jim Garber]

ChrisR:
I saw that Style 5 on the dealer's site. I won't reveal the name of the dealer, but it is a reputable one. If you are dissatisfiued with the instrument I am sure that you can return it.

It does look quite nice. The listing says "on hold." Is that you, Chris?

Jim

[Jim Garber]

I just checked some of the detail pics. The neck joint does look like it was done a little sloppily at least from the slightly out-of-focus photo.

If you do get it, I would have a good luthier check it out and see that it is structurally sound. Otherwise, you may need to have it redone by a competent person. Get an estimate and tell the dealer at that point.

Jim

[ChrisR]

It wasn't on hold this morning, but no it wasn't me. You snooze, you lose, I guess. Thanks for the replies though.

Chris.

[Jim Garber]

It was at Bernunzio's:

Martin Style 5 sn. 1473 # ca. 1904 # an truly, artistic gem from the C. F. Martin Company built 100 years ago. This Neapolitan style instrument features Brazilian rosewood ribs, ivory binding, pearl and ebony top trim; tortoise and pearl pickguard and the most delicate abalone inlay in the fingerboard and peghead that Martin has ever done. The neck on this instrument has been refinished and the diamond volute has been repaired, but there are no cracks on the body and it plays well with a classical sound VG HSC $1750

Jim