Martin 00-18 from 1950, in very nice original and well-preserved condition.
This early 1950s example is an excellent specimen from one of the Nazareth-based manufacturer’s most prolific productions (second only to the 0-18 model), proving it to be one of the most popular combinations of size, wood types, and styling for many guitarists and Martin fans over the decades. Far from being a flashy instrument, the body is soberly finished, with simple tortoiseshell celluloid binding on the top and back along the body edges and a simple, multi-ply rosette in alternating black and white binding. True to traditional Martin style, simplicity speaks for itself.
The 00-size mahogany body makes the guitar very light and responsive, with a pleasing blend of depth and clarity of tone. This guitar was built in mid-1950, one of 525 00-18s shipped that year. It sports typical period features, including a tortoiseshell celluloid pickguard, Brazilian rosewood fingerboard and bridge, and a beautifully aged natural finish over the spruce top. It also features the original set of Kluson 210 open-back tuners, typical of the post-war period. The guitar remains in excellent condition to this day, free of cracks or defects. We have thoroughly set it up, including fret planing and polishing, and complete action and intonation adjustments at the nut and saddle to restore perfect playability and in-tune performance.
Supplied along with a 1970s Martin 00-shaped case.