1967 Martin 000-18

Here we have a 1967 Martin 000-18 that has real potential but needs some TLC. The Rosewood fingerboard has been refretted but needs another refret at this point. The action is currently playable but not ideal. The saddle is too low for further adjustment, so a neck set is called for. It’s not that unusual to do a neck reset and refret on an older Martin, so that’s okay as far as it goes. This one might benefit from a new bridge and pickguard, but that wouldn’t be required to restore it to full playability. There are a few cracks, none open or in need of immediate attention. There is a small piece of missing binding on the backside at the bottom of the guitar. The heel cap is also missing. The finish has many scratches and wear spots too numerous to call out but the photos give you a good idea of what’s going on. Not as bad as many vintage Martins we’ve seen.

All in all, its a solid Martin 000 that just needs some TLC at this point in its life. It’s hard to kill a good Martin and a 000-18 from 1967 definitely qualifies as a good Martin. Once restored this little guitar will provide decades of happy service to its new owner. If you’re a luthier, this would be a great buy, but even if you’re hiring out the restoration, we’ve priced the guitar to give you room to maneuver with your luthier of choice.

This instrument is offered, as described, which means unless we’ve misrepresented any of the details above, there are no returns. This really is a sweet guitar with nice tone, and it has high upside potential. Whether you address just the immediate requirements or do a full blown restoration, we think you’ll be happy with results.

DETAILS
Make: Martin

Model: 000-18

Serial: 224154

Finish: Natural (well worn)

Case: Non-Original Martin Hardshell Case

Condition: Fair Vintage Condition (needs a lot of work but playable as is)

Modifications: Bone nut added; refret; under-saddle piezo installed with endpin jack; replaced bridge; very low saddle; replaced pickguard; unrepaired pickguard crack

Comments: A once beautiful instrument with loads of potential but that's fallen on hard times.