Brand: Martin
Instrument Categories: 12 String, Acoustic Steel String, Guitars, SOLD
Built from 1973 until 1995, the Martin D12-18 is the twelve string version of Martin’s iconic 14-fret mahogany dreadnought guitar. Its current closest equivalent is the D12-28, using Rosewood for the back and sides.
This fine example of the Martin D12-18 was built during 1977, possibly around May. It’s in overall good condition and most importantly, its has just had a neck reset and full setup at The Twelfth Fret Repair Shop. Consequently, it plays very well and should be ready for years of use. The finish is in good shape with just a few small dings and dents, some of which show up in an exaggerated way in the photos due to lighting effects. The Grover strip tuners are an unusual model, and work well.
Based on the standard D-18 Dreadnought body design, the D12-18 uses a Sitka Spruce top with Mahogany for the back, sides and neck, with Rosewood for the headplate, fingerboard and bridge. Bracing is a bit heavier due to the extra tension of the twelve strings. The scale length on this Martin 12’s is a bit shorter than their six string models, at 24.9 inches vs 25.4, and this helps lower the string tension slightly.
The choice of Mahogany for the back and sides adds some brightness, clarity and definition to the tonal output. 12 string guitars can be powerful and it’s important that notes be clearly defined.
The original blue molded Martin case is included.
- Model: D12-18
- Year: Current
- Finish Natural
- Class: Vintage
- Serial Number: 393420
- Country of Origin: USA
- Condition: Good
- Date Posted: 04/05/2018
- This instrument has been sold
- Consignment Item
- Required CITES documentation
- Including original Hard case
- Instrument Weight: 4.75lbs 2.16kg
- Scale Length: 24.9in 632.5mm
- Nut Width: 1.88in 48mm
