1923 Martin 0-18K

ARCHIVED • SOLD

1923 Martin 0-18K

Serial # 18836. The Koa 0-18K was introduced in 1918 as one of C.F. Martin's first true steel string guitars. Thanks to the Hawaiian music invasion of the late 'teens the model took off in popularity, and by 1920 ranked second only to the standard 0-18 in production totals. Steel sting guitars had become all the rage, and the guitar was poised to enter the limelight; Martin's annual guitar production increased fourfold as a result. A total of 249 0-18K's were in 1923 - all of them X-braced and constructed to accommodate the higher string tensions of steel strings.
A marvelously well preserved guitar, this 0-18K is without cracks and exhibits very little wear to its shellac finish. It has had its neck professionally reset not very long ago and plays beautifully. Its bridge saddle slot has been relocated for proper intonation, its frets have been dressed, and the instrument has been nicely set up. No repairs or issues to mention. Koa top, back, and sides; rosewood bindings and standard style 18 trim. Ebony fingerboard and original ebony nut. Two replacement bridge pins of approximately the same style and age, new bone saddle. 1-7/8" nut width, 24.9" scale, 2-3/8" string spacing at the bridge. An open and breathy guitar with a sparkle imparted by the Koa top. Quite different than a spruce top 0-18, the denser Koa imparts a snap and dryness not heard in spruce top guitars. Very well balanced, and mesmerizing the play.
With original hard shell case
SOLD
1923 Martin 0-18K
  • 1923 Martin 0-18K
  • 1923 Martin 0-18K
  • 1923 Martin 0-18K
  • 1923 Martin 0-18K
  • 1923 Martin 0-18K
  • 1923 Martin 0-18K
  • 1923 Martin 0-18K
  • 1923 Martin 0-18K
  • 1923 Martin 0-18K
  • 1923 Martin 0-18K

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