Celebrating Three Decades of Acoustic Excellence: Martin and clapton Unveil Anniversary Models
Eric Clapton’s unforgettable MTV Unplugged performance in 1992 is often hailed as a pivotal moment in music history, reigniting interest in acoustic guitar sounds.This iconic set not only captivated audiences but also led to the creation of Clapton’s signature model, the Martin 000-42EC, introduced in 1995.
New Anniversary Models to Honor a Lasting Legacy
fast forward thirty years, and Martin Guitars, in collaboration with Clapton, is excited to announce two special anniversary editions: the 000-42EC 30th Anniversary and the 000-EC 30th Anniversary. These models celebrate a remarkable partnership that has produced some of the most coveted acoustic guitars in the industry.
Clapton’s signature acoustics have consistently been among Martin’s most popular offerings. To honor this legacy, Martin is releasing a tribute model inspired by the 1939 000-42 that Clapton famously played during his MTV Unplugged set, alongside a more understated version for those who prefer a subtle aesthetic.
Features of the 000-42EC 30th Anniversary
The 000-42EC 30th Anniversary is a direct homage to the original model, boasting a solid Adirondack spruce top with an antique toner and solid Guatemalan rosewood back and sides. This combination delivers “rich,vintage-inspired tones” that echo the warmth of pre-war guitars.
With its “golden-era inspired” Adirondack spruce X-bracing, this model enhances resonance and projection, while the period-correct neck shape offers a comfortable playing experience with a 1 11/16” nut width. The guitar’s aesthetic is completed with 42-style snowflake inlays, Waverly open-gear tuners, and a vintage gloss finish, ensuring it looks as good as it sounds.
Limited Edition and Exclusive Features
Only 300 units of the 000-42EC 30th Anniversary will be produced, each featuring a hand-signed paper label by Clapton, a printed certificate of authenticity, and a premium embroidered Harptone case with a matching shroud exclusive to this limited release.
(Image credit: Martin)
The 000-EC 30th Anniversary: A Subtle Alternative
For those who appreciate a more understated design, the 000-EC 30th Anniversary offers a solid spruce top paired with solid East Indian rosewood back and sides, delivering a “balanced, resonant tone.” This model retains the same pre-war neck shape as its counterpart.
It features a herringbone-trimmed top, antique white binding, and the refined 42-style snowflake inlays, ensuring it maintains a classic look. Like the 000-42EC, this model also includes all the exclusive case accessories.
(Image credit: Martin)
A Rich History of Collaboration
The partnership between Clapton and Martin is deeply rooted. Clapton famously wrote Marvelous Tonight on a Martin 000-28, which he auctioned for charity in 1999, only to see it resurface at auction last year. Following the success of the MTV Unplugged performance, Martin and Clapton officially collaborated in 1995, launching the original 000-42EC, which became an instant classic.
Over the years, their collaboration has continued to flourish, with a recent release of three dreadnought models in 2023 aimed at raising funds for the Crossroads Center, an addiction recovery facility founded by Clapton in 1998.
Clapton once referred to a Martin prototype of his ’95 signature as “the best-sounding acoustic guitar I’ve ever played,” which also went to auction last year, further solidifying the significance of this collaboration.
Pricing and Availability
the Martin 000-42EC 30th Anniversary is priced at $10,999, while the 000-EC 30th Anniversary is available for $4,999. For more details, visit Martin’s official website.
In related news, Gibson has recently unveiled a Murphy Lab-aged recreation of Clapton’s 1958 Les Paul Custom, the iconic triple humbucker guitar he used on Disraeli Gears, which is now owned by Albert Lee.
