Signature Edition
From MartinGuitarWiki
Contents |
Overview
Martin has produced a variety of Signature Edition guitars in collaboration with artists, or their estates. In nearly all cases, the artists are closely associated in some way with Martin instruments. The guitars are designed to the artists specification, or modeled after instruments owned by the artist. An important part of the program is that the artist doesn't receive a royalty, rather a donation is made to a cause designated by the artist.
Dick Boak, director of artist relations at Martin manages most of this program.
While the guitars are inevitably designated as Signature Editions (i.e. Andy Summers Signature Edition Martin) Martin designates the guitars as either a Limited Edition, Special Edition, or Custom Artist Series. It's not exactly clear what the difference between the Limited Edition and Special Editions are; but the Custom Artist Series is designated as an open ended production whereas the Limited Edition are limited to a specific number or ordering period.
History
Edition Sizes
Originally, edition sizes were determined prior to the announcement, and were based on estimates of how many they thought they could sell. Often they were tied to some significant number (the 461 edition size of the Eric Clapton 000-42EC was from the album 461 Ocean Boulevard
For most editions (except those constrained by materials) Martin now announces the guitar with a defined ordering period, and sets the edition size once the ordering period has closed.
Customizing Signature Editions
Martin does not allow customization of signature editions in most cases. There are exceptions (left hand, electronics) but you cannot order one without the signature on the fretboard.
You can always order a similar guitar through the Custom Shop, however you generally will not be able to get custom inlays developed for Signature editions.
Editions
Year | Model | Edition Size
- 1999 Dave Matthews DM3MD 234
- 2004 Eric Clapton 000-ECHF Bellezza Nera 478
- 2005 M3M George Martin 127
- 2006 Eric Clapton 000-ECHF Bellezza Bianca 410
