Originally produced in 1931, the Martin arch top guitars became a piece of the background in Martin's history. Frankly, this was due to Epiphone and Gibsons climb to the top in manufacturing, and Martins successes in producing flat top guitars. Martin wavered between their C-1 and R-18 arch top models in an effort for sales - with the tops featuring F holes (like this example) and others offered with a round sound hole between '31-'33. The bigger bodied F series of their arch top guitars would be introduced soon after, ultimately in smaller numbers than the R-18's which made up about a quarter of Martins output during the early 30's. The arch top line would eventually be discontinued in 1942. While ultimately these instruments would fall into some obscurity in the product line, they are actually very well made instruments. The C-1 and the R-18 models, do have a sound - albeit a different tone than their bigger bodied counterparts happening around NYC. A nice folk-y interpretation of what acoustic arch tops are most known for.
This C-1 comes to us without a stamp, so its age is likely post '34 as it has a slightly longer 24.9" scale length. The body is constructed out of very nice Mahogany, with a pressed spruce top, unlike the earlier carved top models. It has a nice and present tone that is a bit bright, midrange forward and dry. It's a certainly unique tone that while being adequate for jazz, would probably suit someone playing folk a bit more nicely. Cosmetically this example is in good playing condition, but it pretty weathered and has had an overspray at some point in its life. Very fun vintage bird decals are present on the top, giving it a great look - overall the top has a good amount of wear, albeit in solid structural shape now. A well repaired top crack is present near the treble side bout, as well as some open screw holes from its original pickguard, and near the bass side f hole. Simple nicks and dings are present. The stain has faded in some places nicely, giving it a very authentic look - appropriate for a guitar nearing a century in age. The original hanger tailpiece has been replaced with a nice vintage Gibson style option, the original holes covered by this current one. The back and sides of this instrument show the thicker overspray, and viewing internally one will see the old cloth repair work in the shoulder, as well as some plugged holes and significant crack repairs - all well done and structurally strong at this point.
This guitar has had a neck set in its lifetime, which still is pretty good and yields easy playability in the upper registers, measuring 4-5/64" in height on the sixth string at the twelfth fret, and 4/64" on the first string (albeit with the thumb screws fairly bottomed out currently, maybe 1/32" remaining). The frets have been played and are evenly worn but no faulty notes present.
It goes without really saying that one may consider this for a re-top. While this may be heresy to some, if it yields a unique and nice playing flat-top that is more suited for the next owner, who is one to really judge?
Includes an era correct chipboard case.