A rare piece of C.F. Martin history. Hand-built in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, this top-tier EM-18 (Serial #2092, 1979) is one of only 1,375 ever produced. Features exceptional build quality with a resonant 9-piece maple, rosewood, and walnut body/neck-through design. Superb playability with a very comfortable neck and low action.

Specifications & Advanced Electronics

Pickups: Factory loaded with the highly sought-after 1970s Mighty Mite Double Cream humbuckers (Model 1300/1400) coupled with original mini-toggles for coil-splitting and phase switching.

The EVH Connection: In 1979, Eddie Van Halen famously used these exact Mighty Mite pickups for his iconic "Shark" Destroyer and early Frankenstein backup projects. He chose them because they were hotter and fatter than standard Gibson pickups, defining the early Van Halen "Brown Sound." Today, an original 1970s set like this is a rare collector's item on its own.

Controls: High tonal versatility with a 3-way toggle switch, individual volume/tone, and two mini-toggles for coil-split and phase (in/out).

Hardware: Original High-quality Grover tuners and a solid Leo Quan Badass bridge for endless sustain.

Note: There is a minor hairline crack on the neck that was professionally glued and sealed more than 40 years ago. It has been 100% stable, solid, and completely unaffected by string tension or climate for over four decades. It does not affect structural integrity at all.

Comes complete with its original Martin "gun-style" hardcase in great structural shape.

Overall fine player grade vintage condition with some honest play wear and a beautiful natural patina.

Shipping & Terms

  • Location: Shipped from Denmark (European Union).
  • EU Buyers: NO IMPORT TAXES OR CUSTOMS DUTIES.
  • International Shipping: Fully tracked and professionally packed. Contact for an exact quote if your destination is not specified.
  • Please ask all questions BEFORE buying! Please review all pictures as they are part of the description.

Listed4 days ago
ConditionGood (Used)
Good condition items function properly but may exhibit some wear and tear.Learn more
Brand
Model
  • EM-18
Finish
  • Natural
Categories
Year
  • 1979
Made In
  • United States
Fretboard Material
  • Rosewood
Neck Construction
  • Set-Neck
Body Shape
  • Double Cutaway
Right / Left Handed
  • Right Handed
Number of Strings
  • 6-String
Bridge/Tailpiece Type
  • Wrap-Around
Body Type
  • Solid Body
Offset Body
  • Offset Body
Pickup Configuration
  • HH
Color Family
  • Tan
  • Natural
Number of Frets
  • 22

Product safety information may be available here.

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