


Craftsmanship meets musical history!
For over 175 years, C.F. Martin & Co., better known as Martin Guitars, has stood for exceptional craftsmanship and pioneering innovations in guitar making. With the development of the iconic dreadnought shape, which has significantly shaped today's acoustic guitar, the traditional family business has revolutionized the world of music.
The whole story of Martin
The history of Martin Guitars began in 1833, when German-born guitar maker Christian Frederick Martin Sr. opened his first store in New York City. Shortly thereafter, he moved the company headquarters to Nazareth, Pennsylvania, where the company is still located today. From there, Martin revolutionized the traditional art of instrument making with innovative ideas and made a lasting impact on the music world - with guitars that have given music an unmistakable voice and shaped countless songs.

Innovation and tradition: the X-bracing revolution
One of the most significant legacies of C.F. Martin Sr. is X-bracing, an internal bracing system that not only improved the stability of guitars, but also enabled the full, resonant sound that is now a hallmark of Martin guitars. This construction technique became the standard in guitar making and is still used in all Martin models today. But that's not all, Martin is still working on updated versions of this bracing today, in an attempt to permanently improve and optimize its guitars. The number of instruments that are still on the market after 100 years demonstrates the longevity of the instruments.
Martin Guitars - In a nutshell:
- Founded in 1833 by German immigrant Christian Frederick Martin Sr
- Still in the family today through six generations
- Introduction of the dreadnought shape that defines the modern acoustic guitar
- Inventor of the X-bracing system, which provides more stability and sound
- Pioneer of guitars with 14 frets outside the body
- Use of the highest quality woods and materials for outstanding sound
- Known worldwide for uncompromising craftsmanship and quality
- Popular with musicians of all genres, from legends to up-and-coming artists




The importance of high-quality raw materials
In this manufacturing process, the choice of materials is of the utmost importance at Martin. Martin uses only the finest woods, such as mahogany, rosewood and spruce, to ensure the characteristic sound of their guitars. These woods are carefully selected, dried and processed to ensure that they meet the specific requirements of each guitar. The use of these high-quality materials contributes significantly to the warm, full sound of Martin guitars.
Our commitment to perfection
At Custom Reserve, we are proud to offer you an exclusive selection of the finest Martin guitars. We present the finest models, from carefully selected series to unique custom store creations. Our dedicated team is on hand to help you find the perfect Martin guitar for you - an instrument that will last a lifetime and bring you joy. A special highlight is our annual Martin Weeks event, where we work online and on site to bring the incomparable Martin sound closer to even more people and celebrate the 190-year tradition of this legendary guitar maker together.