C. F. Martin & Co. has expanded its artist portfolio with the launch of two Joe Bonamassa signature acoustic guitars, strategically targeting distinct price points within the retail market. According to Premier Guitar, the Nazareth, Pennsylvania-based manufacturer introduced the handcrafted 00-18 Joe Bonamassa and the more accessible 00-10E Retro Joe Bonamassa, both modeled after the blues-rock guitarist’s prized 1937 Martin 00-18 shade-top.
The premium 00-18 model, built at Martin’s U.S. facility, features solid spruce and mahogany construction with Golden Era scalloped X-bracing, carrying a street price of $3,999.99. To broaden distribution reach, the company also released the 00-10E Retro, manufactured at its Navojoa, Mexico plant. This version utilizes solid spruce and sapele, includes Martin E1 electronics, and retails for $1,299.99. Premier Guitar reports that Bonamassa personally validated the prototype tones and onboard electronics before final production approval.
Both instruments feature custom 1937-style sunbursts and replicated top wear to mimic the vintage aesthetic of the original instrument. This dual-facility approach allows authorized dealers to offer high-end collector items alongside mid-range performance guitars, addressing diverse consumer demand while leveraging Bonamassa’s reputation as a vintage authority. The new models are currently available through authorized Martin dealers and the manufacturer’s direct online channel.
For more information, visit premierguitar.com.
