“I want to experience the pinnacle of acoustic guitars.” “I’m looking for the ultimate collection—one that’s unlike anyone else’s, combining overwhelming sound with historical value and rarity.”… If you’re someone who refuses to compromise, aren’t you searching for that very “phantom guitar”?
The Martin “D-45,” the brand’s top-of-the-line model, is a dream that every acoustic guitar lover aspires to own at least once. However, if you’re looking to own one for a lifetime, you’ll likely want to find an instrument that exudes a special, legendary aura—not just the common natural-top model. Vintage D-45s are already scarce, and finding one with a distinct “special character” that sets it apart from the rest requires endless time and a stroke of luck.
That long journey of discovery may finally come to an end here. We’re pleased to introduce a 1975 Martin D-45 Shade Top— a historic treasure that combines the dazzling, bell-like sound of the very best D-45s with a “sunburst finish,” a style that is both highly unconventional and extremely rare in Martin’s history.
Throughout Martin’s long history, it was extremely rare for a “Shade Top”—a D-45 deliberately colored to contrast with the natural beauty of its premium woods—to be produced. This specification, produced only in very limited quantities—primarily for custom orders—is held in a class of its own on the vintage market.
Furthermore, this instrument was built in 1975. Crafted during the 1970s—the height of the folk music boom—it was meticulously assembled by skilled artisans using only the finest, carefully selected woods. The passage of half a century (approximately 50 years) since its manufacture has matured the guitar’s sound to an ultimate level.
It features the rich, robust bass characteristic of the “non-scalloped bracing” typical of the 1970s, combined with the D-45’s signature crystal-clear, harmonically rich treble. Fifty years of aging have allowed the wood to fuse completely, producing a majestic, orchestral resonance with even the lightest pluck.
A 1970s D-45 is already incredibly valuable, but an “Original Shade Top” takes it to an entirely different level. This is a museum-grade masterpiece that collectors around the world are desperately searching for, and an instrument of this historical significance is truly a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity. If you miss this chance, no one can predict when—or if—it will ever reappear on the market.
Stand at the pinnacle of Martin’s history and savor the bliss of having this exquisite vintage tone all to yourself. Why not welcome this miraculous guitar into your life as your lifelong companion and a family heirloom?
[Specifications/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 / Cosmetic Condition, etc.] *Please note that as this is a used/vintage item, the information provided is based on our inspection and is limited to what we were able to determine. - While there are minor dents, scuffs, and weather checking, considering its age, it is in excellent condition with no cracks. - The pickguard has been replaced. - The endpin hole has been enlarged. - The saddle has been replaced.
[Playing Condition] - There is no muffled sound or buzzing. - String action at the 12th fret: 2.4 mm on the 6th string side, 1.9 mm on the 1st string side. - Saddle projection: approx. 2.0 mm to 2.5 mm
[Mail-Order Assurance Service] Since we are unable to offer customers the opportunity to try out the instrument when purchasing through mail order, we provide a 6-day trial period after the product arrives. Please take your time to try out the product at home, and if you are not satisfied, we will refund the purchase price. *The customer is responsible for round-trip shipping costs.
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Electric Guitars / Electric Basses / Effectors / Amplifiers (Adjustment Warranty: Up to 5 years) If your instrument malfunctions or stops producing sound after purchase, we will provide service free of charge. The warranty period varies by product.
Acoustic Guitars (Peace of Mind Warranty: Up to 6 months) For defects arising from normal use, we will provide free service for either 1 month or 6 months after purchase.
Wind Instruments (Up to 1 Year) Upon arrival, we clean the interior of the instrument, replace consumables as needed, and perform any necessary repairs and maintenance. If the instrument malfunctions or stops producing sound during normal use, we will repair it free of charge.