1939 C. F. Martin D-18 Natural, Excellent, Hard, Call For Price!

SN: 72138. ON HOLD. A well-played and well cared for D-18 powerhouse with one of the most sought-after configurations of the golden era. In their quest to push forward acoustic guitar technology, 1938 and 1939 represented yet another transitional period for Martin. There were three key developments; a slight shift off the x-brace away from the sound hole and closer to the heart of the guitar, a slight narrowing of the neck from 1 ¾ to 1 11/16 inches at the nut (and a corresponding narrowing of the string spacing at the bridge), and the addition of a light “Popsicle” brace in the upper bout under the fretboard tongue. These changes occurred incrementally rather than all at once. Consequently (and fortunately), there is a very small number of guitars that have the centered or “rear-X” brace, with the wider neck, and no Popsicle brace. This is one of those guitars. Additionally, it’s very clean with only light playwear on the top, a moderate amount of buckle wear on the back, and only one discretely placed case bite. The top, back, and sides are crack free with 100% original finish. The guitar had been set up for a strong bluegrass player and the action was a bit high. It now has a new neck set, new frets, and a new repro quality bridge contoured to the original 1939 style. The action is medium low without sacrificing any tone or volume and it plays easily up the neck. Luthier Mark Tossman performed the work to his usual high standard. Inside Mark discovered an old replacement bridge plate but the size and material is consistent with the original and the work was correct. All work was completed with hot hide glue. The ‘39s are just starting to get the respect they are due. Martin has based their latest D-18 Authentic on the 1939 configuration. The 39’s are super fine instruments made from the very best materials by craftsmen at the top of their game with tone second to none. Yet they don’t command the same prices as the earlier instruments making them more affordable for players. For an example of how great this year can be, check out the video of Chris Eldridge and Julian Lage playing a ’39 D-28 and ’39 000-18 on the Fretboard Journal site. Extraordinary. Thanks for reading this far. The price includes a new Hoffee flight case.

http://www.fretboardjournal.com/features/online/interview-chris-eldridge-and-julian-lage