1943 Martin 00018. SN 83171. Guitar Database.

Martin | 00018 | 1943 | SN:831717

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Luthier Facts :
Name: Martin
Location: Nazereth, PA
Wait list: Sockists Worldwide
Taking Orders?: Yes, standard & customs
RIYL: Martin have set the benchmark for a lot of builders and manufacturers.
Note: (RIYL) Recommended If You Like

Model: 00018

Year: 1943

Top: Red spruce

Back and sides: Mahogany

Neck: Mahogany

Nut Width: 1 11/16″

String Spacing: 2 1/8″

Scale: 25.4″

Body Length: 19 1/4″

Lower Bout: 15″

Upper Bout: 11 1/2″

Body Depth: 3 3/8″, 4″

Bridge: Ebony

Rosette:Line purfling

Backstrip: Marquetry

Purfling:Line purfling

This is an early 40’s 00018. One of the 400 built that year, the classic combination of spruce and mahogany in a simple trim. The style 18 was listed in 1857 and has gone on to be a popular style. Built in ‘43, this guitar has the narrower nut width but still retains the sought after Adirondack or red spruce top and scalloped bracing.

The prior owner Harold Cowles has this to say about this guitar “This is a beautiful 1943 Martin 000-18 purchased from the orignal owners daughter. The serial number is 83171.

She’s has one tuner replaced and one tuner tip changed. The button are shrunk, but solid. The guitar is 110% structurally sound. The finish, nut, saddle, pins, bridge, bridge plate, and pick guard are original and it plays and sounds simply divine. No cracks or repairs. Beautiful Brazilian rosewood fret board.

There are but a few ‘43 Martin 000-18’s out there. I will boast that this is a “great one”. This ‘43 000-18 is a real “passionate singer”! It is just a flat out great old guitar. I would give it a good 7.5/8 conditon. There is pick wear on front and some road rash on the back and some minor scratches & a nick or two”

References: Martin Guitars, a History by Mike Longworth.

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