Pre-Owned Martin Limited Edition 00-45S 1902 Brazilian Rosewood Acoustic Guitar with Original Cases

In the early 2000's, the amazing builders in Nazareth brought another historic gem back to new life with a recreation of the Martin 00-45S from the turn of the 20th century.  This is the Martin Limited Edition 00-45S 1902 model.  It was released in 2003, to match the specs of one of four 45-style prototypes built in 1902 (the 45 wasn't released until 1904).  Only 100 were to be built, but upon further research, it may be that only 30 - 40 were built.   This one in particular is # 4.  Supposedly, # 1 was kept by Martin, so this is only the third that came out.  

This 00-45S is a12-fret 00 size body featuring Brazilian rosewood & Adirondack spruce.   The guitar has the hallmarks of modern 45-style appointments, but in addition the original prototype featured an integrated pickguard between the bridge and soundhole in the style of Martin mandolin pickguards of the time.  The Ivoroid bound ebony fretboard features a tree of life inlay combined with an unbound slotted peghead and flowerpot inlay.  Be sure to check out 45 style abalone top trim and rosette, plus butterfly pattern tortoise pickguard with elaborate abalone inlay work.  It's truly stunning.  

It's not just about the looks - it's also about the sound.  The Brazilian rosewood body gives it a deep and balanced tone, with clear projection from the Adirondack spruce top.  Even though it's a small body acoustic, it resonates in a big way and is surprisingly powerful.  Every note rings clearly.  We found it to be wonderful for both fingerpicking and strumming.  Not only is this one of the best looking acoustics here, it's one of the best sounding!

Of course your eyes will be drawn to the ivory micarta bridge, then the unique pickguard, then the intricate inlay work.  There's a lot to look at!  Zoom in on the photos to see it all, and remember this: it's even more impressive in person.

To keep it both period correct and well protected, the guitar comes with two cases.  One is a specially built black coffin case, just like what would come with the guitar in 1902.  The other is modern Martin hardshell, so you can take this out to a gig if you so choose (and we'd love to see someone pull this out on stage!).  It also comes with the original case candy/paperwork.

This Martin Limited Edition 00-45s 1902 is a rare bird, a guitar that is very hard to find.  It's in excellent, near mint condition, and has been set up to play perfectly by our main tech in the shop.  Number 4 of 100, it's a special find - and it can be yours now by coming to Truetone Music in person, or ordering right here.

Body Shape: 00 

Finish: Natural 

Dimensions: 

Width: 14.25" 

Depth: 4.05" 

Body Material: Solid Brazilian Rosewood 

Top Material: Solid Adirondack Spruce 

Bracing: Scalloped X-Bracing 

Body Details: Ivoroid Binding, Tortoise/Abalone Pickguard, Abalone Rosette and Purfling 

Neck Material: Mahogany 

Neck Profile: V 

Fingerboard Material: Ebony 

Fingerboard Radius: 16" 

Neck Details: Ivoroid Binding, Abalone 45 Style Vine Inlay, Rosewood Headstock Overlay 

Nut width: 1.89" 

Scale Length: 24.9" 

String spacing: 2.36" 

Bridge: Ivory Micarta 

Tuners: Three-On-A-Plate with Ivoroid Buttons