The 1930 OM-18 represents the Orchestra Model in its earliest production form. Introduced as one of Martin’s first purpose-built 14-fret flat-tops, the OM retained the longer scale of the earlier 12-fret 000 while offering improved access to the upper register. Its simple Style 18 trim and mahogany body made it the understated counterpart to the rosewood and pearl-appointed OMs of the same period. These early OM's have a rounder upper body than later-year OMs. It also has a handcrafted tortoise teardrop pickguard and a Pyramid bridge like the 1929 OMs. B&C approach this model as an early-OM replica rather than a modern mahogany OM with vintage decoration. The body structure, lightweight bracing, neck reinforcement, fretwork, binding and hardware are selected to reflect the construction practices found on the earliest instruments, including the subtle details that changed as the OM evolved during its short original production period. Moon-logged European red spruce and Honduran mahogany give the build the traditional material foundation of a Style 18 OM. Its long-scale platform is designed for quick response, strong note separation and greater projection than its compact body might suggest, while the mahogany construction keeps the voice direct, focused and fundamental-rich.
