C F Martin 0-18K Steel String Guitar Koa, 1930

Built from 1918 to 1935, the C F Martin 0-18K is a small body Koa wood guitar intended for Hawaiian music, which was very popular at the time. Another very similar version, the 0-18KH (for Hawaiian) was built between 1927 and 1928.

Based on the proven ‘parlor’ size 0 body, the 0-18K used Koa for the top, sides and back, Mahogany for the neck with an unbound Ebony fingerboard and Ebony bridge. At the time this example was built – likely around November 1930, given the serial number – straight Bar frets were still used. A slotted peghead was used to allow for greater downbearing at the nut and better support of the tuning gear posts.

This example is in good playing condition – it’s set as Hawaiian, as many were, so the nut is extended quite high. The bridge has been reglued, and a pickguard was added long ago, probably in the 1930’s. There is a scratch running across the top just above the tail block. The tuners and other elements are original.

The 0 body size is comfortable, and produces a smaller amount of volume. As this is set up as Hawaiian, it’s played with the guitar laid face up on a lap.

This instrument is sold without case, but we can easily supply one.