Explanation
🔽Tokyo's Shin-Okubo New Landmark: "Martin D-45 Forest"
~A Thorough Comparison of 13 Guitars Including Pre-War Models Up to 1998~
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Martin / 1985 D-45
The D-45 is Martin's pinnacle model, the King of Flat-Tops, a name familiar to any acoustic guitarist.
1985 was also a year of significant historical specification changes.
Let's take a look at what makes this instrument so special.
- Transition Period to Adjustable Rods
1985 marked the final year for the square truss rod design.
By 1986, the specification shifted to the adjustable truss rod, allowing for easier tuning.
This particular guitar is a 1985 model featuring the adjustable rod.
You can see the access hole for the truss rod, located just beside the soundhole.
The top features densely figured spruce.
The body's edge is adorned with luxurious abalone shell inlay, meticulously applied by hand, one piece at a time.
Abalone shell inlay sparkles brilliantly around the soundhole, mirroring the top's lustrous finish.
Indian rosewood with a straight grain is used for the sides and back.
The contrast between black and brown is beautiful.
Ebony is used for the fingerboard.
The signature D-45 hexagon inlay features abalone shell, radiating a rainbow-like shimmer.
The neck is crafted from mahogany, featuring a soft V-shape with a comfortable thickness that fits naturally in the hand.
The ebony down-bowed bridge is fitted with a short saddle.
The rosewood veneer headstock features a slightly rounded shape, and the vertical abalone shell inlay instills a sense of superiority, reminding you that you own Martin's pinnacle.
Schaller M6 tuning machines, bearing the Martin logo, are fitted. The gold body of the
enhances the luxurious feel.
The D-45 continues to evolve toward Martin's ideal form through various refinements.
Each year brings different specifications and unique charms.
If this instrument catches your interest, we highly recommend trying it out!
[Staff Comment: Inoue]
The D-45 immediately following the transition to adjustable rods has arrived.
According to the Martin Reference Book, the transition began sequentially from serial number 453181.
This particular instrument's serial number is 458***, matching the book's information—truly thrilling.
Regarding the production numbers for the 1985 Martin D-45, only 78 were made.
This makes it historically very valuable as a "first-year adjustable-rod D-45."
An interesting point is how the adjustable rod was installed, differing from the method used in the 1990s. Seeing the trial and error involved was fascinating.
My personal impression is that while the square-rod D-45 has a robust, wild character, the adjustable-rod version offers a more cohesive, balanced sound.
For those seeking a more refined historical D-45, this is the perfect specimen.
[Specs/Included Case]
TOP: Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Indian Rosewood
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Ebony
NECK: Mahogany
NUT WIDTH: 43mm
SCALE: 645.5mm
CASE: Original Hard Shell Case
[Repair/Modification History/Replaced Parts/Appearance Condition, etc.]
※As this is a used/vintage item, the information provided is based on our inspection.
Please understand this in advance.
- Saddle and pickguard replaced
There are minor scratches and dings, but considering its age, it is in very clean condition. There are no cracks or crack repairs, the finish is original, and it possesses ample collectible value.
[Playing Condition]
-String height at 12th fret: 6th string side 2.5mm, 1st string side 1.9mm
-Saddle relief: approx. 1.0mm to 1.5mm
The neck features a soft V-shape with a satisfying thickness and grip.While the saddle has limited remaining material, this results in a softer tension feel, allowing for stress-free playing. The powerful resonance unique to the D-45 remains intact. Its responsive nature makes it easy to produce sound, and its playing condition is excellent.
[Mail Order Assurance Service]
Since we cannot offer trial play during mail order, we provide a 6-day trial period after delivery.
Test the product thoroughly at home. If you are not satisfied, we will refund the purchase price.
*Customer is responsible for round-trip shipping costs.
Scheduled for shipment
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Warranty for Used Products
Detailed warranty terms and conditionsHerePlease see
Electric Guitar/ElectricBass/Effector/Amplifier (Adjustment Warranty: Up to 5 Years)
If your product malfunctions or stops producing sound after purchase, we will provide free service. The warranty period varies by product.
Acoustic Guitar (Peace of Mind Warranty: Up to 6 months)
We will provide free service for any malfunctions occurring during normal use within one month or six months after purchase.
Wind instruments (up to 1 year)
Upon arrival, we perform internal tube cleaning, appropriate replacement of consumables, and necessary repairs and maintenance. Should the instrument malfunction or cease to produce sound during normal use, we will address the issue free of charge.
◯Junk items come with no warranty.