Martin 5-18 Terz 1949

The Martin 5-18 Terz is a distinctive guitar with the charm and tone that only a genuine vintage Martin can offer. This parlor-sized instrument is known for its comfortable playability and rich sound, reflecting the craftsmanship and quality materials for which Martin is renowned.

Originally designed as part of the German tradition of Terz guitars, it was intended to be tuned a minor third above standard pitch, making it ideal for solo performances and harmonies. The instrument gained further recognition during the 1950s and 1960s through its association with Marty Robbins, who frequently used its distinctive sound on stage.

The guitar features a mahogany neck and body paired with a Sitka spruce top, as Martin no longer routinely used Adirondack spruce for its guitars after World War II. The top is supported by non-scalloped bracing, while the exterior features the characteristic appointments of Martin's Style 18, including tortoiseshell binding and pickguard, along with multi-line rosette and purfling. The neck has a Soft V profile and a rosewood fingerboard with a 16-inch radius, providing a smooth and comfortable playing experience. Mother-of-pearl dot inlays and a rosewood headstock overlay complete the guitar's classic appearance.

This little Martin has recently undergone an extensive restoration and is once again in fantastic playing condition. The work included a neck reset and refret, as well as replacement of the bridge, saddle and bridge plate. Several cracks inside the body have been reinforced with cloth patches, and the braces have been reglued. The body has also been refinished, restoring the original colour of the mahogany.

There are also some older repairs worth noting. A large patch is visible on the bass side of the body, and a crack on the bass side of the headstock has been repaired. One tuner has a replacement gear and screw, easily identified by their different colour. The top shows playing wear and has previously received an overspray.

This makes the Terz a wonderful vintage guitar with a rich history, restored and ready for many more years of music.

This guitar has been carefully inspected for condition and playability, then set up to our Gold Standard by a luthier. We make sure it arrives in your hands exactly as it should: sounding its best, playing effortlessly and ready to be enjoyed from the very first note.