Honoring a Legacy: C. F. Martin & Co. Celebrates Chris Martin IV's 70th Birthday
C. F. Martin & Co., a name synonymous with quality acoustic guitars, is paying tribute to its distinguished chairman, Chris Martin IV, by unveiling two limited-edition guitars. These creations are not just musical instruments; they symbolize a pivotal year in American music and the company’s rich history—1955. This year, marking Chris's birth, also heralded the beginning of the folk boom that forever transformed the musical landscape.
The Guitars: A Blend of Vintage and Modern
The newly unveiled models, the
000-18 1955 CFM IV 70th and the
D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th, are rooted in 1955 craftsmanship while incorporating today's modern advancements. Each limited edition is influenced by an original vintage guitar that has been carefully selected from distinguished collections.
The
000-18 1955 model features a classic gloss body constructed from mahogany, paired with non-scalloped Sitka spruce X-bracing. This design facilitates a clear and articulate sound, making it ideal for fingerstyle musicians and singer-songwriters seeking precision in their performance.
On the other hand, the
D-18 1955 model boasts a bold glossy Dreadnought body that provides ample projection and tonal clarity, thanks to its rear-shifted non-scalloped X-bracing. Both guitars reflect not only excellent craftsmanship but also timeless aesthetics, complete with faux tortoise binding and mother-of-pearl inlays that revel in their vintage inspiration.
Sustainable Craftsmanship
One of the standout features of these limited editions is the use of reclaimed spruce tops. This wood originates from centuries-old trees salvaged in the Alaskan wilderness, ensuring that the guitars are not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly. By using wood from historical log structures, these guitars celebrate the past while ensuring sustainability in modern guitar crafting.
With only 70 units available of each model, each guitar comes with a personalized hard-shell case, embodying Chris Martin IV’s commitment to quality and attention to detail. They are a collector's item designed not just for playing but for honoring the legacy of a man who has impacted the music world for over half a century.
The Celebration of a Legacy
Chris Martin IV stands as the sixth-generation leader of C. F. Martin & Co. Throughout his tenure, he has tirelessly worked to ensure that Martin guitars are synonymous with innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility. As an advocate for music education and community support, he has fostered connections with artists, promoting the importance of music in our lives.
As these two remarkable guitars hit the market, they symbolize more than just a tribute to Martin’s legacy but also the enduring tradition of Martin’s commitment to crafting the highest quality acoustic instruments. “We believe music is an unstoppable force,” says Chris, and with these limited-edition guitars, both the brand and its chairman continue to inspire artists and music lovers alike.
Availability and Purchase
For those interested in acquiring either of these special pieces, they are now available through select Martin dealers and online at martinguitar.com. This is a rare chance to own a guitar that not only plays beautifully but also carries the rich history of American music. Remember, only 70 of each model will be made, so enthusiasts should act quickly to secure their piece of Martin’s storied history.
Celebrate music, history, and craftsmanship with these unforgettable instruments as you play and enjoy the art of music-making, just as Chris Martin IV has been doing for over 70 years.
About C. F. Martin & Co.
C. F. Martin & Co. has been a leader in creating exquisite acoustic guitars for nearly two centuries. It prides itself on combining artistic craftsmanship with the latest technologies to produce instruments for musicians across all genres. Their commitment is not just to make guitars, but to create a legacy that resonates for generations. Dive into their world of music at
martinguitar.com.