Hidden Gems #14 | Hidden Gems is a series we started based on a simple idea: we each take a turn at sharing our current favorite instrument(s) in the shop. A bit of a show-and-tell, if you will.

I love Martin's "Ambertone" finish inspired by the slightly-more-monochromatic shaded tops seen on many smaller-bodied guitars in 1932 and 1933. This finish predates what we think of as a 'Sunburst' ~ where the middle of the guitar's top is much more orange, the edges much closer to black, and the graduation of the shading less subtle. There was no such thing as a 14-fret dreadnought in 1932 or 1933; but a pre-war, Ambertone-finished D-18 would certainly be a dream guitar for many of us (myself included).

Our Martin Custom Shop style-18 dreadnought aims to bring that concept into a more attainable price point, by taking the Standard Series D-18 Ambertone and upgrading it with an Adirondack Spruce top (the most important component of the 'pre-war' sound). It's a lively, powerful sounding guitar especially well suited to strummers and flatpickers, though its rich, woody sound and low-profile neck make it usable for just about anyone.

This is one of the guitars in the shop that punches way above its weight class; and it should be considered by anyone in the market for a lifetime dreadnought. 

~Andy | Vintage & Acoustic Guitars, Media, Web