Unopened 1976 Martin D-18

taylorman · Sea Monkey Joined: 20 Jan 2007 Posts: 13

So I win this aution on ebay for an unopened 1976 Martin D-18, that has been in a climate controlled room for the past 31 years. It was a local auction so I'll have it Monday. To be completely honest I'm nervous as hell.

Should I open it or not?

The owner says "If the guitar is cracked or broken,or turns out to be a box full of tuna fish, I'll refund your money."

Will the value drop if I open it? Or would it be worth more if I don't?

Strat God · Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2007 5:12 am Post subject:

Hmmmm.....I wouldn't tune it up tp A440 for awhile - slowly a gradually.
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McGillman · Posted: Sun Nov 18, 2007 8:37 am Post subject:

Thats a hard choice if you bought this as an investment. If its going right back into a climate controlled setting to wait for an appreciation in value you could get it Xray'd without having to open it. Otherwise, for me, I'd have to look. Sure, that may have an effect on value some day, but for now it belongs to you, right? Tell us what you decide.
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taylorman · Sea Monkey Joined: 20 Jan 2007 Posts: 13

Well I did it, opened the box that is, and to my suprise was a beautiful untouched (since leaving the fatory) 1976 Martin D-18. The only issues are a little curling of the pickguard and a very, very small hairline crack just abouve the pickguard, typical of Martins from what I understand. I know this is a Fender forum but just thought I would tell you guys.

Besides what is cooler than having a 31 year old guitar that has never been played, better yet being the person to take it out of the factory shipping box.

SAguitar · Posted: Tue Nov 20, 2007 6:37 am Post subject:

Wow. That is stunning. I've never heard of that happening before! So, is it a good one? I remember back then going with guys to some big stores and playing a lot of Martins to find a really special one. Not that they all weren't really good, but there's always some that just ring with tone. Cool

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Captain Bb · Posted: Thu Dec 13, 2007 12:05 pm Post subject:

Now, quickly nail that box shut again and don't tell anyone you opened it. In another 30 years you can sell it on as a 60 year old 'unopened' guitar.

I won't tell anyone either, because I'll probably be dead by then or too senile to remember my own name, let alone this thread Wink

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gpower · Posted: Thu Dec 13, 2007 8:53 pm Post subject:

Yer gonna strum it...because ya hafta...ya know ya will...
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Captain Bb · Posted: Fri Dec 14, 2007 10:58 am Post subject:

Yep he probably will....and I bet he's the kind of guy who opens his Christmas presents early too Rolling Eyes

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SAguitar · Posted: Fri Dec 14, 2007 11:05 am Post subject:

Yer gonna do it!
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bluesy · Posted: Fri Dec 14, 2007 9:40 pm Post subject:

we need pictures ! Cool

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taylorman · Sea Monkey Joined: 20 Jan 2007 Posts: 13

Here's some pics. Sorry it took so long to post them

Cutting it out of captivity

Aint she pretty

And yes she is going to be a player, had the usual pickguard crack. I'm having that repaired, getting a neck reset to lower the action and to have correct intonation and adding ebony pins.

SAguitar · Posted: Wed Feb 13, 2008 6:47 am Post subject:

Oh man, you opened it! Rolling Eyes

Well, now what? And what do you feed a Martin that's been boxed up for 30 years? Shocked

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teleman77 · Posted: Wed Feb 13, 2008 6:59 am Post subject:

I really don't think I'd have done that.
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gpower · Posted: Wed Feb 13, 2008 4:38 pm Post subject:

Man, what's it sound like? I can't believe someone bought a beautiful guit like that and kept it packed up. Well? Is it tonealicious?
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Whether you think you can...or you can't...you're right!

Some mistakes are just too much fun to only make once!!!

SAguitar · Posted: Thu Feb 14, 2008 7:08 am Post subject:

I would imagine that it might sound good, but a little tight at first. Then after about 6 months of hard playing it should open up into a very nice room shaker. I've played some Martins from that era, and they were very nice guitars. Cool

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...what used to be 50 watts is now 5, and still kickin' buttocks...