Near the top of their Standard Series, the modern Martin 000-42 is essentially a reissue of a model discontinued in 1943.

Seen here is a Martin 000-42 built during 2020 in Nazareth PA, in very good, clean and original condition with minimal wear. It plays well, and is a beautiful instrument – nicely decorated but not overly so. It has been played, but apparently not extensively, and its already good sound will improve with use.

The 000-42 uses the larger ‘000’ body size that was adapted during 1929 to prototype the OM (Orchestra Model) for banjo players migrating to guitar. That adaptation required a 14-fret neck, a rework of the body shape and relocation of the bridge. For 1934, the 000 models also received the 14-fret neck.

Like other models in this range, the modern Martin 000-42 uses a Sitka Spruce top paired with Indian Rosewood for the sides, back and head plate. Mahogany is used for the neck, body blocks and linings. The bridge and bound fingerboard are Ebony, with bone for the nut and saddle. Inlays are Abalone, and include a vertical C F Martin logo at the headstock, top purfling and rosette, and snowflake position markers. The open-gear Grover Sta-Tite tuners are gold-plated with ‘butterbean’ metal buttons.

As modern updates to the traditional design, the faux-tortoise pickguard is glued to the finish instead of the the top and the neck has an adjustable truss rod.

As stock, electronics are optional and this example is strictly acoustic.

Interest in the long-gone 000-42 rose immediately after Eric Clapton’s 1992 ‘MTV Unplugged’ performance, featuring his 1939 000-42. This appearance led directly to a dramatic rise in Martin output, especially for these older, less common models.

The original hard shell case is included.

Here’s the builder on the Martin 000-42:

“The ornate design and flash of the 42 Series adds panache to the classic tone of East Indian rosewood back and sides, a spruce scalloped X-braced top, and hand-fit dovetail neck joint. Open geared tuners, antique white binding, polished gloss finish and abalone pearl top inlay offers exquisite style with complex tone. Short scale and a sleek modified low-oval neck with narrow taper mean strumming and picking for hours in comfort and bliss.”

Martin 000-42 Specifications: