During the 1930s "Golden Era" period, Martin produced some of their finest instruments, and the models introduced in that timespan effectively modernized and refined the acoustic guitar. Nowadays, the Golden Era "High X" scalloped bracing is a great option to help a Custom Shop Martin produce that authentic '30s sound.
This Custom Shop 000 was built in 2012, and it features classic Style-18 appointments with Golden Era upgrades to produce a full, nuanced sound. This Custom Shop Martin boasts a AAA-grade Adirondack Spruce top with 1/4" Adirondack Spruce braces that are scalloped and carved to the Golden Era spec. The back, sides, and neck are all solid Genuine Mahogany, and with a 1933 Ambertone top finish, this 000 looks every bit as good as it sounds, too.
From there, most of the specs mimic the Golden Era but with subtle upgrades. For example, the 1-3/4" nut width and cutthrough saddle may look familiar, but on this Custom Shop 000-18, they're made from Preserved Mammoth Ivory. It has the iconic Golden Era Martin decal, but unlike the standard production stuff, the headplate is Brazilian Rosewood, just like the '30s originals.
This 2012 Martin Custom Shop 000-18 is in excellent cosmetic condition. It shows one minor play wear and the edge of the headstock has some slight "snark" wear (see photos), . The previous owner installed a K&K Pure Mini pickup and a strap button on the heel. It plays nicely with good action, and the frets show some minor wear but have plenty of life left. The Modified V neck profile feels comfortable, and the wider 2-5/16" string spacing is friendly for fingerpickers and flat pickers alike.
This Custom Shop Martin produces a sweet, nuanced sound that is balanced and lively. It has a wide dynamic and expressive response that make it a versatile guitar. The tone definitely falls on the drier Mahogany end of the spectrum, and it captures the sweetness and mojo of '30s Martin relics. This Custom Shop 000-18 has a lot to offer! It includes its original hardshell case.