Martin 0-18 (1944)

Description

There's no other way to describe it - this 1944 Martin 0-18 is a fingerpicker's dream. Built during Martin's war years, this tiny six-string proves beyond a shadow of a doubt that vintage instruments simply have an X factor that modern ones can't compete with. Boasting a warm, open, and shockingly full sound thanks to some truly vintage cuts of Adirondack red spruce on top and mahogany on the back and sides, the 0-18 has a much bigger voice than its size might suggest, aided by careful craftsmanship and the masterful luthiery synonymous with Martin's work through the first half of the 20th century. Cosmetically, it's representative of the no-frills designs that have become Martin's calling card, but the way that the vintage lacquer finish has broken in adds a beautiful patina to the instrument that can't truly be had on a new guitar.

This instrument has undergone a handful of repairs and has seen about the typical amount of playing wear. The most significant of these repairs is a neck reset, which was performed this year, as well as a bridge reglue, which was done at the same time by the same luthier. There's a moderate to high amount of playing wear throughout on all planes of the instrument, including bare wood around the pickguard and a deeper gouge in the top on the lower bout's bass side, about two inches in length. Other significant wear includes a crack that descends from the bottom of the pickguard down to the bridge, which appears to be stable given the vintage of the guitar. We consider it to be in good condition and have priced it accordingly. Included in the price is the original hard-shell case.

*Please note, per our return policy, all sales on used and consignment instruments are final.*