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1952 Martin 00-18
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Serial #: 126930, stamped on neck block
Nut Width: 1 11/16" Scale length: 24.9"
Materials: Solid bookmatched figured Honduras mahogany back, sides and neck; solid bookmatched quartersawn spruce top; solid Brazilian rosewood fingerboard, bridge, headplate and heelcap; solid bone nut; compensated bone saddle; original open back tuners; original tortoise pickguard, and end graft; original inlaid bridgepins.
Notes: The Style 18 is one of C.F. Martin's oldest designs, dating to at least 1857, and remained the firm's most popular motif throughout the 20th Century. The 'Grand Concert' 00 body size originated in 1873 with a Style 28 guitar, and by 1898 the first 00-18 model made its debut. Redesigned in 1934 to it's current 14 fret configuration, the 00-18 was one of Martin's all-time best selling models. Offered in regular production until 1995, the guitar is now available on custom order only.
This lovely guitar from 1952 is fitted with the prewar style oval button open-back tuners, and shows the colorful tortoiseshell binding and pickguard, both discontinued in the mid-'60s. Featherweight in construction, this elegant guitar tips the scales at a phenomenal 3lb 6oz.. Effortless to hold on the lap or the strap, the guitar has a clear, open voice only decades of age can impart.
Nicely maintained over the years, the guitar is free of cracks, and shows less than average wear for an instrument of its age, mostly confined to some scratches and dings on the back and sides. The body and neck are crafted of close grained Honduras mahogany, and the bookmatched spruce soundboard is supported with tall thin braces. Aged to a deep pumpkin tone, the top shows the sort of red grainlines often associated with Adirondack varieties.
Ideal for fingerstyle play, the guitar is notably sensitive to a pick as well. The voice is warm and balanced, and the neck profile is a gentle C, with just a hint of a light vee in the cheeks. Action is smooth and low over the clear straight Brazilian rosewood fingerboard, with a fine high bone saddle, and freshly dressed original fretwork. A favorite of performers from Nanci Griffith to Dave Alvin and Tim O'Brien, this compact classic offers Golden Era tone at a working player's price. Call now.
Setup: This instrument is strung with light gauge bronze strings (.012-.054). The guitar will accommodate lighter strings, according to preference.
Case: Deluxe arched plush lined fitted black hardshell case.
