Description
Description & Specifications
1920 Martin 0-18
We present an original 1920 C. F. Martin 0-18 in a natural finish with a slotted peghead. Handcrafted in Nazareth, Pennsylvania.
A true vintage workhorse, this 12-fret parlor guitar is in remarkable condition for being over 100 years old. It offers an exceptionally rich and resonant tone, showcasing Martin’s legendary craftsmanship. Featuring a beautifully aged Spruce top, a comfortable mahogany “V” neck profile, and mahogany back and sides, this guitar delivers both historical charm and tonal excellence.
The guitar retains its original tuners, rosewood fingerboard, bar-style frets, and original bridge, which was professionally lowered — likely prior to a neck reset. Over the years, it has developed five repaired top cracks and a few minor ones on the back and sides. All repairs have been skillfully handled by a professional luthier.
A Headway pickup system has been installed, making this guitar fully stage-ready. It’s currently strung with new D’Addario Silk & Steel strings — which are highly recommended for this model to preserve tone and playability.
If you’re seeking a high-quality fingerstyle acoustic guitar made from all solid woods, with a rich voice and historical pedigree, this Martin 0-18 is an outstanding choice.
The History of this Martin model!
It was Built in Martin’s Nazareth, PA workshop, the 0-18 was smaller than the 00-18 and the 000-18, but larger than earlier parlor-style guitars. Like other 18 series Martins, the 0-18 is defined by a Mahogany body (starting in 1917), Spruce top, and minimimal cosmetic flourishes. Also like many classic Martins, the design of the 0-18 changed little from the World War II era until production ended in the mid-’90s. Examples from prior to the mid-’30s have a somewhat different body shape than later guitars.
