Presented here is an exceptional 1976 Martin D-35, made even more desirable by its rare shaded (sunburst) top, excellent condition, and unusually well-documented history. This is a genuine one-owner instrument with a story that adds both charm and credibility—qualities highly prized by collectors and serious players alike.
The original owner was living in France near Toulouse when he decided to purchase this guitar. He asked his brother, who in the United States on a business trip at the time, to buy the instrument on his behalf. The guitar was personally selected in the U.S. and then shipped to France. Remarkably, the original customs import document is included with the guitar, confirming its journey and establishing a clear, traceable provenance. Documentation of this kind is rarely preserved and significantly enhances the instrument’s historical and collectible value.
Introduced in 1965, the Martin D-35 quickly distinguished itself from other dreadnoughts through its three-piece Indian rosewood back and lighter internal bracing. These design choices resulted in a sound that is full, open, and harmonically rich, with deep bass response and excellent balance across the tonal spectrum.
By the 1970s, the D-35 had become a favorite among singer-songwriters, studio musicians, and touring professionals seeking warmth, clarity, and projection.
- Top: Adirondack spruce
- Back & Sides: Indian rosewood (three-piece back)
- Finish: Rare factory shaded top
The Adirondack spruce top provides strength, headroom, and dynamic response, while the Indian rosewood back and sides contribute depth, sustain, and shimmering overtones. Decades of natural aging have allowed the wood to open up beautifully, resulting in a voice that is powerful yet refined.
This guitar is in Very Good condition, showing only light, honest signs of age consistent with careful ownership. It remains structurally sound, resonant, and inspiring to play. A professionally installed LR Baggs pickup has been added (now in the guitar case), making the instrument ready for stage or studio use without compromising its acoustic character.
The guitar comes complete with its original blue plastic molded Martin case with blue plush inside, a period-correct accessory that is increasingly difficult to find and further supports its originality.
With its rare shaded finish, premium tonewoods, one-owner history, original case, installed pickup, and preserved customs documentation, this 1976 Martin D-35 stands out as a truly special vintage instrument. It offers not only legendary Martin tone, but also a compelling story—an instrument with soul, history, and timeless musical authority.
Specifications :
Model : D-35
Color : shaded top
Production year : 1976
Serial number : 386789
Case : Original Martin blue case