New models mark Martin dreadnought centenary

Martin is debuting two new Dreadnought guitars at Summer NAMM, as part of its centenary celebration of the model. 

The new guitars featured include the D-1 Authentic 1931, which closely replicates the very first Martin branded Dreadnought made in 1931, and the CS-Bluegrass-16, a Dreadnought model limited to 100 guitars and inspired by the pre-WWII D-28 “Herringbone” Martin guitars that have been behind much country and bluegrass music.

The award-winning documentary The Ballad of the Dreadnought narrated by award-winning actor and musician Jeff Daniels will be shown daily at 2pm for NAMM attendees in Music City Center, room 205. Seating is on a first come, first serve basis.

Also on display will be the LE Cowboy 2016, limited to models sold in 2016 and crafted from a solid Sitka spruce top with Vintage Tone System (VTS) with cowboy-themed artwork by painter William Matthews. After owners register their guitar online they will also receive a special package including a copy of Matthews’ hardcover book, Working the West and a feature length DVD Drawn to Paint.

“It is such an honour to collaborate once again with Martin Guitar on the LE Cowboy Guitar, 2016 Edition,” said WMatthews. “Tapaderos are the stirrup covers of a Spanish saddle, and are symbolic of the rich Buckaroo culture of the Great Basin in Nevada, where I have painted for many years. I feel that the painting and headstock inlay design perfectly enhance the craftsmanship of Martin’s Custom Shop. I am very proud of this partnership and I know this guitar will be appreciated by guitar enthusiasts everywhere.”

D-1 Authentic 1931: Based off the very first Martin branded Dreadnought, this 12-fret Dreadnought remains true to its origins with hide glue construction, Vintage Gloss finish, Adirondack spruce top with Vintage Tone System (VTS) and mahogany back and sides which will appeal to a wide range of players and musical styles with its well-balanced tone. In keeping with original tonewoods, CITES Certified Brazilian rosewood is selected for the headplate, fingerboard, bridge and end piece. (MSRP: $6,999)

CS-Bluegrass-16: The CS-Bluegrass-16 is limited to only 100 instruments. Classic styling, such as herringbone top inlay with large soundhole and antique top toner, grained ivoroid binding, and ebony fingerboard and bridge are combined with an Adirondack spruce top with Vintage Tone System (VTS), Guatemalan rosewood back and sides and hide glue construction. (MSRP: $7,999)

LE Cowboy 2016: Made from a solid Sitka spruce top with Vintage Tone System (VTS) and adorned with artwork by William Matthews. It has an auditorium 12-fret body with quilted mahogany back and sides, grained ivoroid binding, a modified low oval neck, ebony fingerboard and bridge and cowboy-themed artwork carried through on the headstock. Orders for the special edition LE-Cowboy-2016 model will be limited to those received during the 2016 calendar year. (MSRP: $4,999)