Martin | 00018 | 1953 | SN:130042
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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: 1953
- Top: Sitka spruce
- Back and sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Nut Width: 1 11/16″
- String Spacing: 2 1/8″
- Scale: 24.9″
- 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
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This is an early 50’s 00018. 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 ‘53, this guitar has the narrower nut width and has the Sitka spruce top and non-scalloped bracing.
The prior owner Mark has this to say about this guitar “This is a great little 000-18 Martin from 1953, Serial # 130042. It, has some cracks that have been repaired and are very stable. The worn bridge plate has been expertly repaired without being removed, so the string to plate contact is like new. The tuners are not original, and I can put on Waverly tuners for an added cost. The guitar plays well, although someone before me, shaved the bridge rather than reset the neck. It is cosmetically as one would expect from a player’s guitar of this era. Frets are also in good shape.”
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References: Martin Guitars, a History by Mike Longworth.
Pictures kind courtesy of montanaluthier.
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Vintage 000-series Martins should have a 24.9″ scale length. Has this guitar had the neck replaced? Also, the fingerboard and bridge should both be rosewood on the 000-18 model
Hi Dana,
Thank you for your feedback- the scale length is 24.9- apologies for the typo. The bridge we are informed is ebony but I will check again.
hi can u tell me the best martin to buy i am an irish folk singer cheers
Hi Joe,
thanks for your note- really the best martin for you depends on your playing style and musical needs- it isn’t something one can pick out of a catalogue! We recommend you pop down to your local stockists and give the guitars a try for yourself- it’ll be fun and informative.