The Martin Eric Clapton Signature 30th Anniversary 000-42EC limited-edition auditorium acoustic guitar commemorates three decades of collaboration between the legendary guitarist and Martin Guitar. Limited to only 300 pieces, this model is a faithful nod to the guitar Clapton used during his iconic *MTV Unplugged* performance. Featuring a solid Adirondack spruce top with antique toner and solid Guatemalan rosewood back and sides, this 000-42EC delivers a rich tonal depth with exceptional resonance and clarity. The Golden Era-inspired scalloped bracing enhances projection, making this guitar ideal for both intricate fingerstyle passages and dynamic strumming. Finished in vintage gloss, the auditorium body with a 14th fret neck join offers a balanced tonal palette and unmatched playability. With its timeless aesthetic and hand-signed label from Clapton himself, this guitar is both a player's dream and a collector's treasure.
Adirondack Spruce and Guatemalan Rosewood for Rich Tonality
This instrument's tonewood pairing of Adirondack spruce and Guatemalan rosewood brings a sophisticated voice that is both powerful and nuanced. The Adirondack spruce top, known for its stiffness and dynamic range, delivers unmatched clarity and responsiveness, whether played softly or with vigor. Meanwhile, the Guatemalan rosewood back and sides add warmth, depth and complex overtones, creating a tonal character that is full-bodied yet articulate. Together, these woods produce a sound that is both balanced and vibrant, perfectly suited to the 000 body's compact yet resonant design. The scalloped bracing further enhances the guitar's projection, ensuring a rich and enveloping tonal response.
Golden Era Aesthetics With Modern Playability
The Martin 000-42EC combines vintage-inspired design elements with modern craftsmanship for a playing experience that is as refined as its appearance. The neck, crafted from genuine mahogany with an Authentic 1939 profile, offers a comfortable grip for extended sessions. Its slightly narrower 1 11/16" nut width accommodates effortless fretting, making it suitable for intricate fingerstyle techniques or fluid chord transitions. The ebony fingerboard is adorned with Golden Era 42-style snowflake inlays, adding a touch of elegance to the guitar's understated aesthetic. Antique white binding and a faux tortoise pickguard complete the vintage look, while the shorter 24.9" scale length enhances playability and responsiveness.
Handcrafted Details for Timeless Elegance
Every detail of this auditorium acoustic guitar reflects Martin's meticulous attention to craftsmanship. The abalone rosette and multi-stripe purfling add a touch of luxury, while the vintage gloss finish enhances the natural beauty of the tonewoods. The beveled antique white bindings provide a seamless transition between materials, and the 1930-style ebony bridge ensures optimal string-to-body energy transfer. Waverly open-gear tuners with relic nickel finishes offer precise tuning stability and a subtle nod to vintage styling. Bone bridge pins with abalone dots and a mother-of-pearl headstock logo complete the guitar's thoughtful design, making it as visually inspiring as it is sonically rewarding.
Collector's Appeal With Clapton's Touch
As a limited-edition signature model, the 000-42EC 30th Anniversary includes exclusive features that elevate its status as a true collector's piece. Each guitar features a hand-signed paper label from Eric Clapton, making it a personal tribute to his enduring legacy. The dovetail neck joint ensures stability and tonal integrity, while Martin's Plek process guarantees precise fretwork for optimal playability. Strung with Clapton's Choice phosphor bronze strings and accompanied by an extra set in the case pocket, this guitar is ready for immediate performance. The included hardshell case provides secure transport and storage, ensuring this instrument remains pristine for years to come.
A Celebration of Timeless Design and Tone
The Martin Eric Clapton Signature 30th Anniversary 000-42EC acoustic guitar is the perfect choice for players and collectors looking to own a piece of musical history. With its premium tonewoods, meticulous craftsmanship and Eric Clapton's signature approval, this guitar offers a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Whether you're performing on stage or adding it to your collection, this limited-edition model embodies the artistry of Martin and Clapton's enduring partnership.