Koa wood Martins...

TGMandolinMike
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Sun Feb 21, 2010 2:57 pm

In response to Jim, who left a post describing his 1931 Martin 0-18K: Koa wood Martins are very interesting pieces. These guitars (and Martin Koa ukes) were made primarily in the 1920's-1930's when Hawaiian music was enjoying widespread popularity on the Mainland. Eventually, supplies dried up, although Koa is once again available from harvesting deadfalls on the Big Island. Koa has a tone of amazing beauty and clarity, as well as a wide variety of grain and figure. The style 18 Koa guitars have a straighter grain, somewhat resembling light colored mahogany, whereas the style 28K received wood with a more decorative flamed pattern. I agree...Jim, if you have any pictures of your 0-18K, give 'em up!


jimgilroy
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Mon Feb 22, 2010 7:48 pm

I am a newbie here and so I have yet to learn how to upload pictures to this site. I will try to learn ASAP. I actually have the original cardboard case that came with the guitar and I will provide photographs of it as well. The previous owner of the guitar contacted Martin and provided the serial number - apparently there were only 118 made in 1931 and mine is likely one of only a few that have survived.


jimgilroy
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Mon Feb 22, 2010 8:48 pm

I have just posted in my profile 4 pics of my 1931 0-18K including the original cardboard case


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