Martin's entry level Rosewood back and sides model, the style 21 has paired back appointments with a focus on quality tonewoods and construction without the aesthetic frills of the higher numbered models. Not often seen on the UK market, this is a fantastic example in excellent condition and with the desirable herringbone stripe on the back.

Besides it's wonderful condition, one of the first things you notice is the neck profile - a very comfortable yet hefty, rounded C that fills the hand and provides a robust feel and connection to the instrument. It plays remarkably well - the neck has been reset and the action is spot on. Overall the geometry is where you'd want it, and there's about 3.5mm of height remaining on the saddle for further tweaks down the line. 

This also ensures a good break angle over the saddle ensuring good string to body transfer. The tone is well balanced, with a tight bass response, lots of rich harmonics to the mids and sweet highs that are nicely rounded. It's a really nice guitar for fingerstyle, it projects well and is loud when you need it to be. 

The Sitka Spruce top is tight grained and the finish has nicely honeyed over the years. There is the typical E-string crack caused by pickguard shrinkage but otherwise the instrument is crack free and in really great shape as you can see in the photos.

All in all an inspiring guitar to play and a great addition to any collection.