1999 Martin OM-18v, good condition. First year of production of this vintage series model, which was based upon Martin's mahogany-backed orchestra model from 1930-33. Sitka top, genuine mahogany back, sides, and neck, ebony bridge and fretboard. Original micarta saddle, nut looks to be bleached bone, and original plastic bridge pins. 1 3/4" nut, 2 3/8" vintage string spacing at the saddle. Modified 'V' neck profile that is full, yet very comfortable in my medium-sized hands.
Strap button and K&K pickup added.
Very lightweight build, tone is very open, resonant, and powerful, even with light gauge strings. I have a Martin 000 and 0000 that I run with mediums to get a fuller tone, but this OM does very well with lights, so it's probably a monster with medium gauge.
The guitar is quite responsive to a light touch, and has good sustain. Nice Martin rumble in the bass, but retains good balance between bass and treble. Very good clarity/note separation.
Very versatile guitar---sounds and plays great fingerpicked (bare fingers or with picks) or as a strummer with a flatpick. If you like/need more room for your fingers for fretting or picking, the wide spacing is really great.
Definitely a player-grade guitar, with a variety of smallish scuffs and light scratches. The one noteable defect is a crack in the upper side (near your right bicep in playing position---see images); it is about 1.5" long, and has been glued and cleated. There are no other structural issues with the guitar. There is some light fretwear in the cowboy chord area of the trebles, but overall frets are in good shape. The sitka has some nice cross-grain silk throughout and a nice amber hue, and the mahogany for the back is very finely-grained compared to what you find on more recent standard series Martins.
Trussrod functions normally, and there is 1/8"+ of saddle remaining above the bridge with medium height string action. Comes with original Martin/Gelb case (green interior), in good condition.
I am truly reluctant to part with this one, as it has great vintage vibe and tone for a modern Martin. You don't see these come up for sale very often, and for good reason. Feel free to let me know if you have any questions.
