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Product Details
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Martin / 1985 D-45
The D-45 is Martin's flagship model, reigning as the King of Flat-Tops, and a guitar that any acoustic guitarist has likely heard at least once.
1985 also marked a historic year for significant specification changes.
Let's take a look at what makes this guitar so appealing.
- The Adjustable Rod Transition Period
1985 was the last year for square rods.
By 1986, the truss rod was being replaced with an adjustable rod.
This guitar features a 1985 adjustable rod.
Avoiding the sound hole, you can see the hole for access to the truss rod.
The top is made of densely grained spruce.
The body edges are individually and lavishly decorated with abalone shells, handcrafted by artisans.
The abalone shell decoration surrounding the sound hole sparkles just like the top.
The sides and back are made of straight-grained Indian rosewood.
The contrast of black and brown is beautiful.
The fingerboard is made of ebony.
The D-45's signature hexagonal inlays are crafted from abalone shell, emitting a rainbow-hued sheen.
The neck is crafted from mahogany, with a soft V-shape that's just the right thickness for a comfortable fit.
The ebony down-belly bridge features a short saddle.
The rosewood-laminated headstock has a slightly rounded shape, and the vertical inlays on the abalone shell give you a sense of superiority, knowing you own the pinnacle of Martin.
The tuning machines are Martin-stamped Schaller M6s.
The gold housing adds to the luxurious look.
The D-45 continues to evolve into the perfection Martin seeks, adapting to a variety of uses.
Each year, it offers different specifications and appeal.
If you're interested in this instrument, be sure to give it a try!
[Representative Comment: Inoue]
We have a D-45 in stock, just after the transition to adjustable rods.
According to the Martin Reference Book, the transition will begin sequentially, starting with serial number 453181.
The serial number of this particular guitar is 458***, which matches the information in the book, and I'm thrilled.
And as for the 1985 Martin D-45, only 78 were produced.
This makes it historically very valuable as the "first year of adjustable rods."
One interesting point is that the installation method is different from the adjustable rods of the 1990s. It was fascinating to see the trial and error that went into it.
In my opinion, square-rod D-45s have a bold, wild sound, while adjustable rods produce a more cohesive, well-balanced sound.
This is the perfect instrument for those looking for a more refined and historic D-45.
[Specifications/Included Case]
TOP: Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Indian Rosewood
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Ebony
NECK: Mahogany
NUT WIDTH: 43mm
SCALE: 645.5mm
CASE: Original Hard Shell Case
[Repair/Modification History/Replacement Parts/Condition, etc.]
*This is a used/vintage item, and information is based on our own inspection.
Please note.
-Saddle and pickguard replaced
There are minor scratches and dents, but the instrument is in excellent condition considering its age. There are no cracks or crack repairs, and the finish is original, making it a highly collectible instrument.
[Playability Condition]
- String Height at the 12th Fret: 2.5mm on the 6th String Side, 1.9mm on the 1st String Side
- Saddle Overhang: Approximately 1.0mm-1.5mm
The neck features a soft V-shape with just the right amount of thickness, providing a comfortable grip. While there is a little saddle remaining, the resulting gentle tension allows for stress-free playing. The powerful resonance of the D-45 is still present. The response is excellent, making it easy to produce sound, and the guitar is in excellent playing condition.
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Please note that all items are for sale in our Tokyo store.
There is a chance they might be sold out. All items are shipped tracked and insured. All import duties or customs fees are the buyers responsibility - please be aware of the requirements for your country. If you have any questions please ask.
| Listed | 5 months ago |
|---|---|
| Condition | Excellent (Used) Excellent items are almost entirely free from blemishes and other visual defects and have been played or used with the utmost care.Learn more |
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