1934 C.F. Martin & Company R-18 Archtop Conversion (Style 18) – by Joel Whitehead

This is a remarkable 1934 Martin R-18 archtop that has been expertly converted to a Style 18 flattop by respected luthier Joel Whitehead. The instrument retains much of its original character while benefiting from a high-quality professional conversion.

Key Features & Specs

  • New AAA Adirondack spruce top with 1/4” scalloped bracing
  • Nut width: 1.756"
  • String spacing at bridge (E–E): 2.277"
  • Scale length: 24-7/8"
  • Brazilian rosewood belly bridge with bone saddle and ebony bridge pins
  • New lacquer-aged finish on top, blended to match the vintage body

Original Components

  • Neck, sides, and back (Honduran mahogany)
  • Brazilian rosewood fingerboard
  • Neck block and tail block
  • Back bracing and center strip
  • Original Martin peghead
  • Original tuners
  • Original dot inlays
  • Back cellulose binding with end graft

Condition & Playability

The guitar has been refretted and fitted with a new bone nut and saddle. It plays beautifully and delivers a rich, resonant tone with plenty of vintage character.

Cosmetically, the instrument shows its age, with various scratches, dings, dents, and surface wear throughout—consistent with a well-loved guitar from this era. The top has been aged to visually match the rest of the instrument.

Case

Includes aftermarket case.

This item is sold As-Described

This item is sold As-Described and cannot be returned unless it arrives in a condition different from how it was described or photographed. Items must be returned in original, as-shipped condition with all original packaging.Learn More.

Promoted similar listings













Listed3 months ago
ConditionGood (Used)
Good condition items function properly but may exhibit some wear and tear.Learn more
Brand
Model
  • 00-18 shade top R-18 conversion
Year
  • 1934
Made In
  • United States
Right / Left Handed
  • Right Handed
Number of Strings
  • 6-String

Product safety information may be available here.

antique fretted instruments

Woodland Hills, CA, United States
Joined Reverb:2013

Reverb Protection

Simple Returns, Secure Transactions, Human Support

Learn more

Secure Checkout

Reverb Gives

Your purchases help youth music programs get the gear they need to make music.

Oops, looks like you forgot something. Please check the fields highlighted in red.