Martin D-45S Deluxe D45S Guitar of the Month D45 12 Fret

1992 Martin D-45S Deluxe

About as good as it gets. This is a guitar of the month D45S Deluxe limited from 1992, and one of only 50 made. Martin took “deluxe” all the way with this one, with the exquisite addition of a continuous strip of abalone inlay in the neck that runs along the fretboard, around the headstock, and heel. An abalone border on the fingerboard itself really takes it over the top, in a good way. But, to me it still sounds better than it looks.

Specs / Measurements

• 1992
• Sitka Spruce (1/4 scalloped bracing) / EI Rosewood back and sides (both Martin’s highest grade)
• Brazilian rosewood headstock overlay
• ~1.80” nut
• ~25.5” string length
• ~2.31” string spacing at saddle
• 12 fret neck
• 45-style trim, with additional abalone inlay along the entire neck, along the fretboard, around the heel, around the headstock, and on the fretboard.
• Gold tuners with “M” abalone inlays in ebony buttons
• Original Martin hard case with twist latches

Condition / Setup Notes

The guitar is in excellent(+) condition, perhaps even without considering its rarity and age. There is only the lightest surface wear that is apparent only in raking light. Binding corners shrunk at miters on fretboard end and by the nut. Replacement bone nut and saddle (originals in the case but these are much nicer). Very slight and small section of finish bubble on the front edge of the bridge, but inconspicuous and stable with no issues with the bridge or otherwise. String path is beautiful, well dressed frets and a jet black ebony fingerboard. String height currently about 6/64”-4/64” from bass to treble, and playing nicely.

***

I just can’t get enough of this guitar. There was a time I didn’t like so much shell, but something changed and now I can’t get enough of the 42 - 45 style aesthetic. I didn’t think the abalone could get more substantial than a standard 45 but the Deluxe found a way, and grandly at that. Not only is there additional inlay on the neck, each ebony tuning button has an abalone “M” inlaid on either side. Perhaps it could be considered an area of restraint, the old-style 45 inlays on the fretboard are a nice touch. This is a guitar I would be happy just to look at from time to time, but it is such a rewarding experience to play it. The sheer size of the sound is a pleasure to absorb, and for some the wider nut will be a welcome thing. Nice to last details, the case too is a thing of beauty, with twist latches that indicate something special might be inside.

Thanks for looking. Any questions please feel free. 

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(For direct sales, international shipping available and no sales tax charged outside of NY)