Martin D-18 Authentic 1939 Preowned 2015

Here to remind you why you fell in love with us in the first place, the new Authentics are constructed the old way - with hide glue, throughout, and historically-accurate detailing confirmed by using a CAT scan machine located at the Smithsonian Institute. Based on a 1939 D-18 in our museum, this guitar features genuine mahogany back and sides, an Adirondack spruce top, using an authentic circa 1939 bracing pattern. Period-correct "18" Authentic-style appointments, with an Authentic neck barrel and heel, complete this piece. Martin’s new VINTAGE TONE SYSTEM^® (VTS) is employed for the top and braces. The new Martin VINTAGE TONE SYSTEM^® uses a unique recipe that is based on the historic torrefaction system. The VTS acts much like a time machine in which Martin can target certain time periods and age the top/braces to that era. This focused method allows Martin’s craftsmen and women to recreate not only the pleasing visual aesthetics of a vintage guitar, but also reproduce the special tones previously reserved for vintage instruments.

This killer 2015-built Custom Shop Martin has been well-used, with plenty of honest playwear to show for it and the kind of tone that only comes from a well-played guitar! The binding has been professionally reglued (common to this era of Martin guitars) and a small side crack has been repaired and cleated, almost seamlessly. There's small dings and scratches over the body and headstock, but it sounds and plays like a real-deal vintage D-18, with warmth, depth and harmonic complexity in spades. The action is at a great medium height, and it currently feels great to play. There's also a professionally-installed K&K Pure Mini passive pickup, for great and natural plugged in tone. A great player-grade Authentic Martin with tonnes of vibe and classic tone. Includes original hardshell case.