Martin 000-18 (1943)

Given its ultra-light construction and ebony neck rod, this 000-18 has astonishing low-end thump and the fat, pillowy projection associated with these 'wartime' guitars.

This 1943 Martin 000-18 is currently the envy of everyone on staff at TME. It is gorgeously full-sounding and incredibly powerful for a small-bodied guitar, with the coveted immediacy of response demanded by vintage guitar purists. Each note that rings out of this guitar seems at once warm, clear, and buttery soft. It's a fingerstyle player's dream guitar for its recording voice; but playing it with a flatpick is an addictive experience. Given its ultra-light construction and ebony neck rod, it has astonishing low-end thump and the fat, pillowy projection associated with these 'wartime' guitars when dug into with a plectrum. This guitar has been played a lot in its life, and its supreme degree of openness is undoubtedly linked to that fact (it was most recently owned by friend of TME and mandolinist extraordinaire, Joe K. Walsh). If you've been on the lookout for a wartime 000, we can't remember such a guitar impressing us more than this one.

This guitar is in lovely, original condition, with just one finish touch up on the top (done by TJ Thompson). It exhibits the expected playwear and lacquer checking seen on most 80-year old Martins that have lead a life of regular gigging. The action currently sits at 4/32" on the bass side and 3/32" on the treble side under tension of light strings. These measurements may prove a tad higher than pure fingerstylists would desire, though there's adequate saddle height; and the setup can be adjusted for lower action. Price includes a contemporary Martin hardshell case. Expedited shipping required -- interested parties are invited to contact us for an in-hand description!