The Martin D35, recognizable for its distinctive three-piece back, has been part of Martin’s standard lineup since its 1965 introduction. The design was generated for a practical reason – it allowed use of smaller sections of Rosewood that could not fit on a two-piece back as used on the D-28 or D-45. While the D28 and D35 share many construction features, the D35 can have a bit more tonal range and better developed low and high end response and balance.

The three-piece back is by nature stiffer and the first Martin 35, then called the X-35, used the same bracing as the 1965 D-28, but this made it very bassy. Martin then lightened the back bracing, to an OO style, and the results were so much better that the lighter OOO bracing style was added to the top. At that time, the sides and back were Brazilian Rosewood, but this started to phase out during 1969 as embargoes were enforced. By 1970, most of Martin’s stock had been used and replaced with Indian Rosewood, and the last examples of any Brazilian panels on a D35 appeared in 1971.

Here we’re looking at a Martin D35 that dates to January 2008 and was built at the Martin plant in Nazareth, Pennsylvania. It has had an L R Baggs M1a active soundhole pickup installed to an endpin jack. This pickup is powered by a single 3v CR2032 ‘button’ battery, located under the pickup and easily replaceable.

Overall this guitar is in good condition with no major repairs or damage, and with light play wear. Fret wear is typical but light in the low positions. The Nitrocellulose lacquer finish is naturally sinking into the wood grain, and is in good condition with light wear. The original nut has been replaced and appears to be compensated for better tuning in low positions. It plays well, and has the full rich sound of a Martin dreadnought.

A Gator hard shell case is included.

Current Martin D35 Specifications: