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Introduced in 1965, the Martin D-35 was originally created to make use of rosewood too narrow for the traditional two-piece back design of the D-28. Martin’s solution was the three-piece back that quickly became a signature look. Beyond aesthetics, the thinner back bracing and unique construction gave the D-35 a distinct voice—still unmistakably Martin, but with more low-end depth and a slightly scooped midrange, making it a favourite for singer-songwriters, strummers, and flatpickers alike. Over the decades it has earned its place as one of Martin’s most iconic dreadnoughts, celebrated for both its power and balance.
This 1974 Martin D-35 is in excellent overall condition and has clearly been well cared for over its lifetime. The natural spruce top has aged beautifully, complemented by rosewood back and sides with that distinctive three-piece design. There are no issues with the binding and purfling and there are only minor signs of use consistent with a carefully played 50-year-old instrument. The only changes are a professionally fitted new compensated bone bridge saddle for improved intonation and a replacement pickguard (the original having suffered from the common shrinkage issue of this era). Otherwise, everything is original.
Tonally, it’s everything you’d want from a good D-35 — rich, warm bass response, balanced mids, and clear trebles. It’s got plenty of projection and body for strumming but also a sweetness when played fingerstyle. The neck has a reasonably chunky C profile, with a low action that makes for easy playability.
Overall, this is an excellent example of a mid-‘70s D-35. Comes in it's original blue hardshell case along with the original owners manual/warrantee card.
Scale length: 25.4"
Nut width: 1 11/16"
Top: Sitka spruce
Back & sides: East Indian rosewood (three-piece back)
Neck: Mahogany
Fingerboard: Ebony
