"French Polish" refers to a traditional method of finishing guitars, where numerous thin coats of shellac are applied by hand using a pad made of cotton or wool. This technique originated in France in the 18th century and became popular among luthiers due to its ability to produce a high-gloss, lustrous finish that enhances the natural beauty of the wood. Until cheaper and faster nitrocellulose lacquer sprays were introduced in the 1930s, French polish was considered the finest finish for instruments. Unlike modern lacquer, French polish is less resilient but offers superior resonance, allowing the guitar's tone woods to breathe, resulting in a warmer, more responsive tone preferred by many players.
This D-18 (serial #129936) was made in 1953, and at some point along the way, a previous owner decided to experiment with French Polish. The results are impressive! 1953 was the middle of the "mystery top" era, which is known a particularly good time for Martin dreadnoughts. To begin with, this D-18 was probably a monster, but the French polish takes it a step further. With the carefully-applied, thin finish, this dreadnought produces a powerful, but deeply responsive tone that is woody and rich.
French polishing is a painstaking, labor-intensive process, and getting it right requires a high degree of skill. On this 1953 D-18, the French polish came out beautifully. The satin look is appropriate for a guitar that is worn-in and played, so visually, the effect is just right. When it comes to sound, this D-18 has a big, throaty voice that is articulate and balanced with singing sustain. It has an openness and responsiveness more like a '30s Martin, and the bass is thunderous. It's hard to say if it's just the finish, but this D-18 has a superlative dreadnought sound.
Beyond the french polish refinish, this D-18 has been optimized for playbitiliy. The bridge has been replaced, and it has properly compensated bone saddle. The neck has been reset, and the fingerboard has been re-planed and re-fretted with EVO gold frets. It has a new nut and a new pickguard, but the original Kluson tuners hold tune like they should. From a structural standpoint, the only repair is a crack on the treble side at the lower bout.
Because of the French polish, this 1953 D-18 captures a woody, rich sound with vibe and character that are totally its own. It has low action and playability almost like a new guitar. But the worn feel of the neck—and the nuanced sound it produces—are character you can only get from a vintage guitar. There is a strap button on the neck heel (directly on the back of the heel), and it includes a basic hardshell case. There is a slight nicotine to smell to the inside of the guitar box, so if you are sensitive to that, then this might not be the right guitar! But if you are curious to try a vintage D-18 that doesn't sound like any of the others, look no further.