Martin 000-C David Gray Custom #1 of 4 Prototype - USA 2004

Martin has a long and storied legacy. The sounds of Martin have accompanied many of the most famous singers in music history. The formula and design of Martin guitars was perfected to such an extent early on that little has changed in nearly a century. Occasionally, however, an artist will come along with a certain sound and style that deserves something unique, so when C.F. Martin approached David Gray about making his own signature guitar, the stage was set to create something truly special. Only 23 David Gray models were made in 2005. This guitar, made in 2004, is a prototype, of which only 4 were made. This is number #1.  

This guitar has been played comprehensively over the last couple of decades. The frets are in good shape with about 80 percent wear. This well looked after, well-loved instrument has broken in nicely and has the body and projection of unmistakable of a high-end vintage Martin. As they say, good guitars just get better with age. The black herringbone binding really set this instrument apart from other Martins. Paired with the black pickguard and black binding at the back of the body, the guitar has a subtle contemporary look, without losing its Martin aesthetic.  

The vintage Martin V profile is very comfortable, with 16” radius and 45.2mm nut with the strings are easily accessible. The medium 24.9” scale length gives the strings a low tension. This guitar lends itself to fingerstyle and blues very nicely. This guitar comes factory equipped with Martin’s Gold Plus Natural 1 active pickup, providing a clear and toneful acoustic representation. 

Being owned by a prominent Australian musician, this guitar has seen many stages and has played to thousands of music lovers at festivals, theatres and headline shows around the world. 

This Martin is everything a good acoustic guitar should be. A collector’s item being the first of its kind produced by Martin. It is loud, comfortable and a joy to play. A perfect musical companion for anyone wanting the best that Martin has to offer.   

Specs: 

Scale length: 24.9” 

Fretboard Radius: 16” 

Action at 1st fret: 0.5mm 

Action at 12th fret: 2.6mm 

Neck depth at 1st fret: 22.5mm  

Neck depth at 10th fret: 26.1mm 

Nut Width: 45.2mm 

12 fret width: 57.8mm 

Neck material: Mahogany neck, ebony fretboard 

Fretboard inlays: None 

Body: Italian Alpine Spruce with Mahogany back and sides 

Body size at lower bout: 385mm 

Pickup: Martin Gold Plus Natural 1 active pickup 

Tuners: Open back martin & co  

Pickguard: Black 

Bridge: Ebony 

Electronics: Pickup (factory installed) 

Case: OHSC