This Used 1956 Martin 000-18 Acoustic Guitar in Natural is here on consignment. Moisture appears to have infiltrated the finish on the headstock, which has caused the finish to lift. Make sure to check out the pics. The rest of the guitar is free from this kind of wear. However, it has been played over the years, so it shows all the signs of a guitar that was played heavily, at least at some point throughout its life. There are a few heavy weather checks in the top, but we have inspected the guitar and there are no cracks/cleats on the inside. The bridge could have been reglued at some point, but it's hard to say with 100% certainty. The saddle is cracked on either side of both E strings, but it doesn't affect anything. This is by no means a pristine, collector's guitar, but it certainly would make any player happy!
This is a great-sounding Vintage 000-18. Its dry, focused tone has been accentuated and complemented by time; the wood on this guitar knows exactly what its job is. It is lively, resonant, and an inspiring instrument that is surprisingly loud. The neck feels absolutely perfect. The size, the shape, the rolled edges, it's just a fantastic feeling guitar.
As far as we were told, this guitar has not had a neck reset, so that may be looming if you end up putting a lot more miles on it, but it doesn't need one at the moment, and considering its age, it plays well! A planing of the fingerboard and a refret would go a long way regarding playability, but we understand having it in its original condition may be more desirable. However, if you want to discuss a refret, we are happy to do that work as well!
