1927 Martin 0-18K

For your consideration, Garrett Park Guitars presents this 1927 Martin 0-18K.

This is a pre-War example of Martin's 0-18K, a distinctive flattop featuring a solid Hawaiian koa body, scalloped X-bracing, and a warm, woody character. A real player, it shows signs of use for its 99 years making music: in addition to the amateur refinish and aftermarket pickguard, the fretboard appears to have been changed from the original ebony to rosewood. There are also small holes on both the treble and bass sides of the guitar (pictured). The tuning machines show their age, particularly the high-E tuner, which is loose, but they remain functional and hold tune quite well.

Still, this is a neat guitar with plenty of character and good tone—a comfortable couch picker and an affordable way to get into the pre-War Martin market. It’s not a museum piece, but a fun, honest old guitar that still has plenty of music left in it.

Specifications

Model & Year

• Model: Martin 0-18K
• Year of Manufacture: 1927
• Serial Number: 32509
• Weight: 2lbs 14oz

Body

• Body Shape: 0
• Finish / Color: Natural (refinished)
• Top: Koa
• Back & Sides: Koa
• Bridge: Rosewood
• Bracing: Scalloped X
• Pickguard: Aftermarket

Neck

• Wood: Mahogany
• Fingerboard: Rosewood (possibly changed from ebony)
• Construction: Set
• Inlays: Dots
• Shape: Rounded V
• Nut Width: 1.83"
• Depth: .89" (1st), 1.14" (10th)
• Scale Length: 25.5″
• Frets: Refret
• Tuners:  3-on-a-plate

Condition: Fair