Santa Jeffy’s Guitar Shop

In the spring of 2017, John O'Connell, the owner of Crazy Horse Guitars in Des Moines, unexpectedly passed away.  And, too, so ended one of the iconic guitar shops in the city.   John was always nice to me.  He was eager to help and provide advice on my older guitars.  

This Supertone Hawaiian hung in his shop for as long as I can remember.  I am now the custodian of this piece of guitar history and memorabilia from CHG.

There is a stamp on the interior label that should indicate the year of manufacture.  It has weathered to nearly unreadable.  I can interpret the stamp as either '32 or '42...we will never know.  At a minimum, my research does show that this guitar was made in the '30's - '40's.

The artwork and sound hole ring was stenciled onto the body.  At some point, someone reattached or replaced the bridge with screws.  She definitely needs a neck reset.  A good cleaning wouldn't hurt either.

No matter.  I did not buy this guitar for resale.  It will hang in my guitar room and remind me of the "grumpy, old hippie".

In October of 2015 I bought this 1971 ES-320TD from Mike Law, owner of Lawman Guitars in West Des Moines, IA. I have always been happy to have this guitar in my collection. Now, it's your turn to enjoy this vintage instrument.

Dating this Guitar:

There was considerable discussion surrounding the dating this 320. Mike had dated the guitar as a '72. John O'Connell, owner of Crazy Horse Guitars (Gibson, Martin and vintage dealer for years), broke out his Gibson research materials and dated it as a '71. My tech replaced the pots in May of 2017 allowing Dirk Newton, a local vintage guitar shop owner, to use the numbers on the pots to confirm that she is, indeed, a '71.

Serial #961833 Information:

Per the available serial number data, this ES320 was made at the Kalamazoo or Nashville Plant in 1970, 1971 or 1972.

Original Pot #1346615 Information:

The potentiometers were made by Mepco/CentraLab, Inc. in the 15th week of 1966.

The part numbers, BA811-370K / 250K, indicates a frequently used potentiometers in Gibson instruments during the era.

NOTE: Potentiometer dates often precede the final assembly date of a Gibson guitar by several months, or even years, and should be used to establish the earliest possible manufacture date.

Historical Research Notes:

Per John O'Connell and his Gibson dealer data, there were approximately 669 320's were made in total. He also noted that this particular 320 is most likely is 1 of 1...no more than 4...for a 1971 model in Maple Natural, as the Cherry Burst and Cherry Red bodies were far more popular.

My ownership notes:

In 2017, we performed a neck reset, added fresh pots (I still have the originals, which had given up the ghost) and 50's style wiring. These updates gave the guitar a solid Gibson sound, but all it's own.

Prior to me becoming the caretaker of this 320, she must have been refretted. GREAT playability. Low action.

Everyone concurred that this 320 was obviously from a pro player. The fretboard has the wear one would expect from serious playing.

Original Gibson Deluxe tuning machines.

Original Gibson branded pickups.

Original Gibson branded bridge cover.

Original pickguard.

Original Hard Case.

If you are looking for an ES-320 in Maple Natural, don't pass this one up!

I picked this Martin up from Lawman Guitars in West Des Moines. The Lawman got it from Crazy Horse Guitars in Des Moines.  Between the 2 of them, this specimen was brought back from being "unloved" to a classic, all original D-18.

The action is low.  Straight neck.  Intonation is spot on.  Solid Martin sound and feel.  Even smells old.  Complete with original case. 

“A true workhorse of the Martin line, this iconic guitar is a zenith of flat-top design.”

A great addition to the collection.  This is my favorite acoustic.

Serial #591858 Information:

• Production year: 1996

• Factory: Nazareth, Pennsylvania

The Back Story:

This estate sale guitar was a prized possession of a local guitar hobbyist who preferred building his player instruments. This D-42 may have been his only Martin factory made guitar. For the vast majority of it's life, she was either stored in the case and only opened for an occasional viewing and maintenance or in a display cabinet at the owner’s office. She was rarely played as the instrument was considered a show piece.

The guitar was purchased on 12/20/97 from Podium Music in Minneapolis, MN. There was a short period where the owner sold it to a friend who rarely (if at all) played it. After a couple of years, he bought it back, never to part from this D-42 again.

Between 2019 and 2024, the owner placed the guitar in its case and was unable to maintain hydration. As a result, a very minor belly crack appeared which was only detectable by touch. I took her to The Lutherie Shop in Des Moines for a complete inspection and repair. Scott found that the bridge was also starting to lift and the repair was added to the was added to the work order. (Repair receipt included.)

Other than the minor pick guard scratching (which were buffed out), he said, “This guitar shows as new.”

My Ownership Notes:

This is a stunning guitar. I cannot find any faults. It has been an honor to be the caretaker of this fine Martin instrument for the past 2.5 years.

To maintain the incredible condition, I have played this guitar only 5 times. The sound is superb.

This D-42 is paired with the original Martin issue hard case. The original owner cut the top holding webbing as he preferred to have the case fully exposed when open. The key is still there.

Also included is the original purchase receipt, warranty registration, original owners card and letter of "thank you for your purchase" from the Martin Guitar Company.

General Overview:

The 1996 Martin D-42 Standard Series marks the official launch year of this iconic dreadnought in Martin's modern catalog. Originally built with premium tone woods and exquisite vintage-style appointments, it remains highly sought-after by players seeking rich bass response and premium craftsmanship.

Core Specifications

• Body Style: 14-Fret Dreadnought

• Top Wood: Solid Sitka Spruce with an aging/vintage toner

• Back & Sides: Solid East Indian Rosewood

• Bracing: Scalloped, forward-shifted X-bracing

• Scale Length: 25.4"

• Nut Width: 1 11/16" standard for this era

• Origin: Made in the USA

Appointments & Hardware

• Inlays: Style 45 snowflake inlays on the ebony fretboard

• Purfling & Rosette: Hand-cut abalone pearl trim lining the top and fingerboard extension

• Tuning Machines: Gold open-gear vintage style with butterbean knobs

• Bridge: Ebony with drop-in saddle (modified to accommodate onboard electronics from the late 90s onward)

Tone & Ownership Insights

• Acoustic Profile: Reviewers note the instrument provides a big, resonant bass and balanced midrange due to the forward-shifted bracing.

• Market Consensus: There is a consensus among members on the Martin D-42 Facebook Group that the 40-series represents a baseline of cosmetic excellence and premium tone compared to lower-tier series.

“The D-42's dreadnought body shape ensures impressive volume and projection, allowing the depth of its tone to take center stage. The delicate balance of rich tone and volume makes this guitar a versatile choice, able to adapt to a broad spectrum of musical styles. Its elegance lies in the details. The D-42 boasts of mother of pearl dot inlays, a tortoise pickguard, and an aged toner finish, enhancing its timeless aesthetics. The guitar's scalloped "X" bracing amplifies its resonance, delivering an open, vibrant sound that appeals to musicians of all genres.” - Equipboard.com

You are reading correctly.  The “100’s” are in my stable.

Here’s the story…

During the winter of ‘22, I was looking for a Shellback and stumbled upon these listings.  Six String Brokerage. located in  Nazareth, PA (the home of the Martin Guitar factory) took these 2 instruments in on consignment.

The original owner, who worked at Martin,  purchased these guitars through their employee purchase program.  That’s right… the Jimmy Buffett Pollywog (#100 of 305) and the matching Jimmy Buffet Shellback (#100 of 168).

The owner of String String Brokerage also shared that the owner was not a guitar player.  Since purchase these guitars had been properly stored in a climate controlled environment and unplayed.  Heck, the original strings were still on the guitars!

Jimmy signed each of the labels for both runs of these guitars.  For the “100’s”, he added extra love…

On the Pollywog label:  “Be good and you will be lonesome.  Mark Twain”

On the Shellback label:  “Hello from the road.  Pine Knob ‘03.”

How could I buy just the Shellback?  These guitars deserved to be kept together. And so they are.

I finally summoned the courage to let these guitars out of my site for servicing (I did not have the intestinal fortitude to DIY the cleaning & restringing.  God forbid I scratch one of them).  After reconnecting with my former guitar tutor and friend, Kevin Neal, guitar wizard and owner of Redd No. 7 Recording Studio, I knew I had the right guy for the job.  I’d trust Kevin with any of my guitars!

When I took possession of these guitars they were in a new condition and are free of any signs of use.   Now, after Kevin’s magic touch, they are truly minty.

Kevin’s notes….

“I’d gig the Shellback today.  It’s that good.  The sound that comes from the Pollywog is phenomenal.  It is special.”

Complete with original cases that show no signs of wear, and case candy.  What a find!

Serial #918470 Information:

• Production year: 2003

• Factory: Nazareth, Pennsylvania

Historical Notes:

The JC-16WE has a solid Sitka spruce top, solid walnut sides, solid walnut two-piece back, single ring rosette with blue Paua pearl and B/W inlay, a black Micarta fingerboard and bridge, gold tuners, Bluestick from Schertler electronics, and an all polished gloss body. These features are the earmarks of the "Premium" version of this model.

The production run for this particular build configuration was 2002-2003. MSRP in 2003 was $2,349.00. After this model was removed from production, Martin did offer it from their custom shop during 2004 through 2005, built to order, starting at $3000.00.

Obviously, this is a rare Martin guitar. Not many of these Walnut Edition, Premium models were made. You hardly ever see one offered on Reverb.

My Ownership Notes:

I purchased this Martin from Professional Music Center in Clive, IA in 2008. I am the 2nd owner.

The walnut sides and back give this guitar a warm sound. She's very comfortable to play. In the 18 years I have owned this guitar, I cannot find any faults. She's had an easy life and the overall condition clearly demonstrates that.

Complete with original issue Martin case. You will notice some mods in the head of the case from trying different hydration methods.

Onboard electronics are hidden from view. There's a volume adjuster in the sound hole. A very clever design.

The identification plate has come off of the interior body. It is included with the purchase, along with the original hang tags.

And it shall come to pass that you shall purchase your first electric guitar...so, after much coaching from my guitar tutor, this baby came home with me from Professional Music Center in Clive, IA.    Man, oh man...can this guitar sing.  I would purposely bring it into the shop to let the pro players give her a workout, as my skills just cannot do her justice.

Made at the Nashville Plant,  on February 28th, 2008. Production Number: 431Model: ESDPVSNH1.  Nickel Hardware.  Rated by Gibson as "Quality Level 1".

All original with OEM case.  Love that '50's look.  I'd name her "Grampy", but she's not the oldest of the stable.

GO BIG RED!  What guitar collecting Husker fan wouldn’t want one of these??  Heck, College Guitar’s is out of business.  So….this is bound to be a collector’s item.  Right?

A “Deluxe Guitar”  with rosewood fretboard, adjustable truss rod, and mahogany body.

Officially licensed by the Nebraska Cornhuskers.  Complete with COA (a.k.a. diploma).

And…it plays pretty darn good for an inexpensive logo’ed instrument.

I paired this with a decent gig bag.  She’s tailgate party ready!!

Serial #2439754 Information:

• Production year: 2020

• Factory: Nazareth, Pennsylvania

My Ownership Notes:

I bought this guitar from Professional Music Center in Clive, IA in August of 2021. It had been in their "high end acoustic room" since late 2020. This new guitar purchase was made on a whim. It's simply called out to me.

This is an all original, hardly touched guitar. If I have played this guitar a dozen times, I'd be shocked. Now, it's your turn to be the caretaker.

All of the factory paperwork and hang tags are there. I am including the original receipt. I have not registered this guitar.

It comes the OEM Martin 640 hardcase.

I have given her a complete "spa treatment" and fresh Martin SP 12 Light strings.

From Martin Guitar:

“Sometimes innovation is in the details and this is certainly true with Martin’s re-imagined D-28. After nearly a century at the helm, and as the quintessential workhorse of music legends like Hank Williams, The Beatles, Johnny Cash, Neil Young, Bob Dylan, and so many more, Martin's legendary D-28 has been lovingly and artfully enhanced.

The all new D-28 blends the rich history of the guitar with Martin’s newest and most heralded innovations. The 184 year old guitar maker has combined vintage appointments, including open gear tuners, an aged toner top, antique white accents, and a faux tortoise pickguard with a new neck profile to give D-28 enthusiasts a modern feel and comfortable playing experience. Martin has also added forward-shifted bracing to allow greater vibration of the top."