1998 Martin OM-28VR

In the late-'20s, Martin unveiled the Orchestra Model body, and although it was quickly overshadowed by the Dreadnought a few years later, the OM-28 is perhaps the first modern acoustic guitar made by C.F. Martin. The OM-28 was the first Martin to combine 14 frets clear of the body and a longer 25.4" scale, and from the ground up, it was designed for steel strings. Its 15"-wide body was massive by '20s standards, and it even had a pickguard and a belly bridge! How many guitars made in 2026 have a similar spec sheet? The OM-28 began a new era of guitar-building for Martin, and it is a versatile, expressive instrument that seems to do everything well.

Martin's Vintage Series revived the revered prewar specifications but with the advantages, precision, and high standards of modern guitar building. The very early Vintage Series models were designated "VR" for "Vintage Reissue," and that was later shortened to just V. This OM-28VR dates to 1998, and it's an early example of the Vintage Series OM-28. When it was made, this guitar was substantially more representative of Martin in the '30s than the Standard Series OM-28. In many ways, this 1998 OM-28VR celebrates Martin's tradition and reputation. 

This 1998 OM-28VR is a 14-fret Orchestra Model with a Sitka Spruce top, East Indian Rosewood back and sides, and of course bold Herringbone around the top. Every detail—including the 1-3/4" nut width, V neck shape, cutthrough saddle with 2-5/16" spacing, open-back tuners, abalone diamond inlays, etc.—is '30s appropriate, but the build quality is 21st Century C.F. Martin. 

This 1998 OM-28VR shows some minor wear and signs of use, but it's in nice shape for nearly 30-year-old Martin. There is some play wear around the picking area, as well as various somatic scuffs around the body. The previous owner installed a K&K Pure Mini pickup and a  strap button on the back of the heel through the heel cap. There is a witness line from a center seam separation at on the top, but it is stable—just a sign that this guitar got hit with some dry conditions at some point along the way. The current setup is really nice—it's low and comfortable, but you can dig in without buzzing. The frets show some expected fret wear, but nothing that affects playability or intonation. 

This 1998 Martin OM-28VR produces a detailed, balanced tone that is robust and powerful, despite the approachable mid-size body. All in all, it's a fantastic used guitar that is starting to develop the subtleties and nuances we love about vintage Martins—fitting for a Vintage Reissue model! It includes its original TKL case.