Following the success of the Limited Edition 000-42EC in 1995, Martin introduced the 000-28 Eric Clapton in 1996. The 000-28EC was Martin's first stock production signature model, and to this day, it remains a hugely popular model in the Martin lineup.
Eric has called the 000-28EC "utilitarian" in the very best sense of the word. Loosely based on the 1939 000-42 Eric played in his iconic MTV Unplugged performance, the model starts with a comfortable 000-body and playable 24.9" scale length. With the classic wood complement of Sitka Spruce and East Indian Rosewood, the result is versatile, balanced tone with impressive clarity. Thanks to scalloped bracing under the hood, the top responds quickly, even with a light touch. Its wide dynamic range is natural fit for fingerstyle players, but it also sounds great with a pick.
This 2025 Martin 000-28EC is #26891 in the series. It shipped from Nazareth just a few months ago, but the original owner couldn't bond with the neck carve and traded it back in. It shows some minor signs of play wear (see photos), and the tuning machines have been upgraded to Gold Waverly open-back machines ($350 value). The action is perfect, pretty much exactly as from the factory, and the frets are pristine. All in all, it is a gently-used guitar that feels almost brand new, but obviously doesn't come at the brand new price.
The 000-28 Eric Clapton model is designed with a short scale length and prewar-inspired scalloped braces for an expressive, responsive playing experience. Every detail—down to the Herringbone trim and the delicate carve of the neck volute—is right out of the CF Martin playbook. This 2025 000-28EC produces a balanced sound with ringing clarity, smooth sustain, and plenty of bass presence. The 1-3/4" nut and Modified V neck deliver a classic Martin feel. The official spec sheet lists these as 2-1/4" string spacing at the saddle, but this one comes in at 2.291" on the digital calipers. As you dig in, this guitar sounds like the top is only beginning to open up. The subtlety, nuance, and character will only get better over the years! Original TKL hardshell case included.