1937 Martin D-18 – Shadetop – Pre-War

1937 Martin D-18 – Shadetop – Pre-War

We present an original 1937 C.F. Martin D-18 in its original Shadetop finish. Crafted in Nazareth, Pennsylvania.

This pre-war C.F. Martin D-18 is among the finest-sounding flat-top acoustic guitars we’ve ever encountered, and from this period, it simply doesn’t get any better. This 1937 example showcases some of the most desirable features: Honduran mahogany back and sides, a red spruce top, and the rare sunburst (shadetop) finish. It features Sitka scalloped forward X-bracing. A truly exceptional and rare piece of pre-war Martin craftsmanship — very few shadetops were produced during this time.

This guitar delivers the rare power and depth of a classic Dreadnought while retaining the sweetness, sparkle, and singing clarity of the finest pre-war mahogany Martins. Compared to virtually anything that has come since, it remains one of the best acoustic guitars for both performance and recording.

Overall, this C.F. Martin is in excellent original condition for its age, with no crack repairs. It retains its original pickguard, ivory nut, ebony bridge, maple bridge plate, open-back Grover tuners with metal buttons, as well as the original bridge pins and endpin. The Honduran mahogany neck features an unbound ebony fingerboard adorned with understated pearl dot inlays. The peghead is faced in rosewood with the original gold “C.F. Martin & Co.” decal. The neck has a rounded profile with just a slight hint of a vintage “V.”

At some point, the guitar was exposed to a high-humidity environment, resulting in significant finish checking and some minor flaking. However, there has been no overspray or touch-up — the finish is 100% original and has been professionally preserved by renowned luthier Dennis Berck. Now nearly 85 years old, this flat-top has been beautifully maintained in the care of one of the world’s most respected guitar luthiers.

Includes a newer hardshell case. Latches and handle are in perfect working order.

Repairs done by luthier Dennis Berck. 

• New frets
• Shim under the original ivory nut.
• Original maple bridge plate is preserved and reglued with hide glue.
• The original ebony bridge is carefully re-worked and preserved.
• New bone saddle.
• Neck reset.