Description
Here we have an exceptional example of Martin's 000-18 model, in the ultra rare Shade Top sunburst finish from 1941. This guitar is one of the finest examples you'll find, extremely well preserved and cared for all of these years. It is one of just a handful produced in this finish in '41.
This one is from the end of the pre-war era, just before materials became scarce and efforts were focused on the war. The style-18 features a mahogany body, spruce top, mahogany neck, and rosewood fingerboard. The Kluson 511 coined edge tuners are original and in great working shape. It appears another set may have been installed at some point as there is a newer silhouette lightly impressed, but there are no extra holes. The frets are original and in good condition. The neck has been expertly set, and the bridge is a perfect replacement. The small maple bridge plate internally is the original. There are no cracks, breaks or other repairs.
The guitar is serial number 79924 and weighs 3lbs 8oz. The neck is a full rounded C shape with a nice shoulder, measuring .860 at the first and .995 at the tenth. It is a scallop braced guitar that sounds wonderful. It has a warm, rich, intimate tone played fingerstyle, but also opens up and sings when pushed with a pick. A traditional Martin sound with plenty of clarity, woody mid-range overtones, and sustain for days.
There are a few dings, a couple of scratches, and minor topical marks on the guitar. It is however in better than excellent condition, a simply unbelievable find in this day and age. Ships in a modern hardshell case for safe transport. Also included is the original Protex semi-hardshell cardboard case that is in excellent condition.
