2018 Pre-War 0-18 Dreadkiller

SN 66115. Custom order from white-hot North Carolina builder Pre*War Guitars. Pre-war is building old guitars today using torrified tops to accelerate the aging of the tone, thin finishes, and creative simulation of pick wear, dings dents, cigarette burns and other “kowa-bunga” techniques to add 80 years to the appearance of your guitar. But most importantly for me, they are building with fine materials, the right glue and slow techniques. They have amassed an impressive wait list in a short period of time. As the serial number suggests, this one is based on a ’37 Martin 0-18 and bears a strong resemblance with the exception or the fretboard, which has no position markers, Waverly tuners with white plastic butterbean knobs, and no logo on the headstock. There are many options to choose from and this has the style 18 trim, mahogany back and sides, ebony bridge and fretboard, and a factory-installed K&K pickup. This is the “Level-1” relic job which comes complete with light checking but requires the owner to do the thrashing. It’s been played capably (and professionally) and is well cared for. The setup has been altered slightly with a taller saddle but I can have the action set anywhere. It ships with a lovely modern Harptone case. Pre-War calls this “The Dreadkiller” and it does have terrific volume and clarity but also has a softer side for the fingerpicker. Feels very cozy in the lap. On consignment, so no trades considered please. NEW PRICE (was $4,150).