From the Factory | July 9, 2025
70 Years, Two New Guitars, and One Epic Legacy
Celebrating Chris Martin IV’s 70th birthday with two all-new, vintage-inspired Martin models
This year is a big one for Chris Martin IV—and for the entire Martin Guitar family. As Chris celebrates his 70th birthday, Martin is honoring his leadership and legacy by releasing two new limited-edition guitars: the 000-18 1955 CFM IV 70th and the D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th. These instruments are more than just a birthday tribute—they’re a connection to a pivotal moment in both Martin’s history and American music.
1955 wasn’t just a milestone for the Martin family—it was also the year the folk boom began to sweep across the country. As artists embraced acoustic sounds and heartfelt storytelling, Martin guitars became essential companions, carrying the songs that shaped a generation. It’s fitting that these two guitars, each inspired by iconic 1955 models, mark Chris Martin IV’s own story in the year that changed everything for folk music—and for Martin Guitar.
Wood That Tells a Story
What really makes these guitars special isn’t just how they sound or look—it’s the story they bring with them. The tops are made from reclaimed spruce from Alaska, wood that’s seen it all. Some of it came from old barge ramps and log floats used to move timber through remote waterways; other pieces were once part of bridges or trees toppled by the wind. Instead of leaving it behind, Martin gave it a new purpose.
This is the first time we’ve used this sustainably sourced spruce, and it’s more than just repurposing materials. It’s about celebrating the strength of nature and the craftsmanship that brings it to life. When you pick up one of these guitars, you’re not just playing music—you’re giving a voice to wood that’s weathered the elements, stood through history, and found its way into your hands.
The 000-18 1955 CFM IV 70th: Intimate, Expressive, and Steeped in History
Inspired by a well-worn 1955 000-18, this model captures the soul of a true classic. The original—serial number 145102—showed decades of honest playwear, every nick and scratch a testament to the music it helped create. The 000-18 1955 CFM IV 70th mirrors that aesthetic with a printed distressed top that feels instantly familiar, like an old friend who’s been part of your musical journey.
Its 000 body size delivers a warm, punchy midrange with bright, articulate treble—perfect for fingerstyle players and singer-songwriters. The reclaimed spruce top, enhanced by non-scalloped X-bracing, adds clarity and control while deepening the guitar’s voice with layers of history. The satin select hardwood neck with a Golden Era Modified Low Oval profile makes for an inviting playing experience, while vintage-style touches like Kluson® Waffleback® tuners and mother-of-pearl dot inlays complete the look.
Limited to just 70 pieces, each guitar includes an embossed paper label hand-signed by Chris Martin IV, making it both a collector’s gem and a player’s dream.
The D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th: Bold, Resonant, and Built for the Spotlight
The D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th draws inspiration from a standout piece of history—a 1955 D-18 from the Skip Maggiora collection. That guitar, serial number 144636, was part of a legendary trove of 150 vintage instruments Skip assembled over a lifetime in the music business. When the collection went up for auction at Heritage, it raised over $2.4 million to support the music programs and youth charities Skip had long championed. A beloved figure in Sacramento’s music scene and the driving force behind Skip’s Music for more than five decades, Skip helped generations of musicians find their voice. His well-worn D-18, marked with the wear and tear of a life filled with music, serves as the perfect inspiration for this limited edition.
This modern reimagining features a reclaimed Alaskan spruce top, echoing both sustainability and tone. Its Dreadnought body and rearward-shifted non-scalloped X-bracing deliver a clear, punchy sound with a balanced mix of bass, mids, and treble—ideal for players looking to cut through a mix. Vintage-inspired details like faux tortoise binding, an FSC®-certified rosewood fingerboard, and a GE Modified Low Oval neck with a satin finish complete the package, while Kluson® Waffleback® tuners keep everything in tune.
Limited to just 70 guitars, each one features an embossed paper label hand-signed by Chris Martin IV and comes with a hardshell case for protection and style.
A Family Legacy of Quality, Tradition, and Innovation
Chris Martin IV isn’t just celebrating his 70th birthday—he’s celebrating a lifetime of carrying forward his family’s commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation. From its earliest days, Martin Guitar has set the standard for acoustic excellence, blending time-honored craftsmanship with forward-thinking approaches. Under Chris’ leadership, the company has deepened its commitment to sustainability, advanced its manufacturing processes, and stayed true to the artistry that has defined Martin guitars for generations.
These two guitars—each a tribute to 1955’s folk-inspired sound and Chris’ remarkable journey—are perfect examples of that legacy. They honor the past while pointing toward the future, offering players and collectors alike a chance to hold a piece of Martin’s evolving story.
Ready to Make History?
The 000-18 1955 CFM IV 70th and D-18 1955 CFM IV 70th aren’t just guitars—they’re invitations to be part of a legacy. Whether you’re drawn to the expressive intimacy of the 000 or the bold projection of the D-18, these guitars are made to inspire and make great music today—and for generations to come.
Visit your local Martin dealer today to experience these exceptional instruments firsthand. Or, if you’re ready to explore their stories from home, learn more at martinguitar.com.
Join Us in Wishing Chris a Happy Birthday!
As we celebrate these incredible guitars and the legacy they honor, we invite you to join us in wishing Chris Martin IV a happy 70th birthday! His dedication to craftsmanship, sustainability, and the art of guitar-making has left an indelible mark on the world of music. Here’s to Chris, to the Martin family, and to the stories and songs that connect us all.
Until next time, happy playing!
