Few guitars wear their history with more pride than this 1957 Martin 00-18. A true road dog, it’s clearly been played, loved, and leaned on — a lifetime of music etched into every mark. The wear is honest and beautiful, giving it that unmistakable vintage character you just can’t fake. This is the kind of guitar that looks like it belongs on stage under warm lights, doing what it was built for.
Crafted in Nazareth, Pennsylvania during Martin’s golden era, the 00-18 combines a spruce top with mahogany back and sides, delivering that quintessential dry, woody voice - punchy and balanced, with focused midrange warmth and sweet, airy trebles. The V-profile neck feels wonderfully vintage under the hand, offering that classic pre-’60s feel that so many players crave.
This example has seen plenty of life: there’s a solid, professionally executed patch repair on the back, and plenty of buckle rash that tells of countless nights on stage. Structurally, it’s rock solid - fully stable and ready for decades more service. The finish wear, dings, and scratches are pure storytelling; every mark has earned its place.
Tonally, it’s simply exceptional - open, resonant, and alive, with that seasoned depth and responsiveness only a well-played Martin can deliver. It’s a guitar that makes you play differently - with more soul, more touch, more connection.
The 00-18 has long been a favourite among players like Elvis Presley, Paul Simon, Woody Guthrie, and John Mayer, and it’s easy to hear why. It’s comfortable, balanced, and timeless - an instrument with a voice and presence far bigger than its size.
A genuine player’s vintage Martin - worn in, wide open, and ready for its next chapter.
Features:
Action at 1st Fret: 0.25mm
Action at 12th Fret: 3.0mm
Neck Depth at 1st Fret: 21.58mm
Nut Width: 42.69mm
Width at 12th Fret: 54.39mm
Weight: 3.53lb / 1.6kg
Make: Martin
Model: 00-18
Year: 1957
Top: Spruce
Back & Sides: Mahogany
Neck: Mahogany, V-profile
Fingerboard: Brazilian Rosewood
Bridge: Brazilian Rosewood
Bracing: X-braced, scalloped
Country of Origin: USA
Case: Non-OHSC
