In the history of guitarmaking, no acoustic has been as influential and groundbreaking as the Martin Dreadnought. Interestingly, the very first Dreadnought guitars weren't sold with the Martin name on them. Starting in 1916, Martin built guitars for the Oliver Ditson company, and the original dreadnoughts were sold with a Ditson stamp and Ditson's own serial numbering system. The 1916 Ditson Model 111 pave the way for the D-18, which didn't roll out of Nazareth until 1931.
In 2007, Martin celebrated the original Ditson dreadnoughts with the Special Edition D-111. This model features a 12-fret dreadnought body with an Adirondack Spruce top and Mahogany back and sides. True to the original 1916 examples, it has Rosewood binding, a pyramid bridge, a wide 1-7/8" nut width, and the unique Ditson "cloud" pickguard. In the soundhole, there is a label signed by Chris Martin, IV, and the centerstrip is starting ped with "Oliver Ditson Co. Boston New York."
This 2007 Martin D-111 produces powerful, robust dreadnought tone. The wide dynamic range is impressive, and the scalloped braces lend a lot of versatility. This D-111 responds beautifully to a light touch, but it absolutely comes alive when you dig in. It has been played, but properly cared for. There is play wear in the general areas—the pickguard shows some wear, the back finish shows wear from rubbing against shirt buttons, the headstock shows wear from restringing and clip-on tuners. But all in all, there's not much to argue with (see photos). The previous owner installed a K&K Pure Mini pickup and a strap button on the neck heel.
While the D-111 was introduced primarily as a historical recreation, it filled a unique hole in the Martin lineup. This rare model is a hard-working 12-fret dreadnought with an Adirondack top and a wide nut width. Because of that combination, the D-111 has developed a following over the years. If you know, you know! This 2007 D-111 has a balanced, throaty voice that has become nuanced and refined, thanks to years of careful playing. This Martin is opening up nicely already, so just imagine how it will sound when it's as old as the original Ditsons! Original hardshell case included, but the underside is a bit weathered.