2014 Martin Custom Shop 0-28 Cocobolo – £3499

NEW ARRIVAL  Martin Custom Shop have produced a very unusual guitar here. As an 0-28 it’s clearly based on a pre 1936 model as it doesn’t have the logo on the headstock, just the Martin stamp on the back. Also the rectangular pyramid bridge and no pickguard would back this up. But I think they’ve used some artistic license, as it has Cocobolo back and sides with no back centre stripe, and it has a satin finish. Maybe the historical accuracy doesn’t matter that much, as it’s a stunning little guitar, built with Martin Custom Shop skill and style. The Adirondack Spruce top gives real bite to the tone, and the Cocobolo back and sides add clarity and definition, plus a shimmer as the notes fade. The 0 size body keep the balance very even, there’s just enough bass, and the trebles sing. The Ebony fingerboard feels very responsive and the pyramid bridge adds class. All in all it’s a rare beast, and a very beautiful one. The guitar comes in it’s original Custom Shop hard case.