Akustikken is an official Martin Custom Shop Expert – one of only 36 in the world and the only one in the Nordic countries. Here you can read how to have a guitar built in Martin's Custom Shop in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, from the initial idea to the finished guitar.
What is a Martin Custom Shop Expert?
Martin invites a small number of dealers into its Custom Shop Expert program. The dealers have in-depth knowledge of Martin's construction techniques, the significance of wood types for tone and playability, body shapes, and Martin's history. As a Custom Shop Expert, we can specify guitars beyond what Martin's own configurator offers, and we have access to Custom Shop prebuilds.
We have been a Danish Martin distributor since 1984 and know both the guitars and the people in Nazareth well.
How to get started
- Contact us. You don't need to have all the details finalized. Tell us what you play and what you dream of, and we'll take it from there.
- We specify the guitar together. Body, wood types, bracing, neck, ornamentation, and finish. Along the way, you will learn more about what the choices mean for tone and playability.
- We obtain a quote from Martin. It usually takes about a week, depending on how complex the specification is. You will receive a complete specification sheet, a price, and an estimated build time. The quote is free and non-binding.
- You place the order. If you want the guitar built, you sign an order from Martin, and production begins. By signing, you commit to purchasing the guitar when it arrives with us.
How much does a Martin Custom Shop guitar cost?
The price depends entirely on the specification: wood types, ornamentation, and how much handwork the guitar requires. There is no upper limit. If you have a wild idea, let us know – we'll figure out how Martin can build it. The only way to get an exact price for your specific guitar is through a specification sheet and a quote from the Custom Shop through us.
How long does it take?
The build time is typically from a few months to around a year. It depends on the specification, what materials are available, and what time of year the order is placed. You will receive an estimated build time along with the quote.
Custom Shop prebuilds
As a Custom Shop Expert, we have access to so-called prebuilds: guitars that have been specified and built in the Martin Custom Shop and can be purchased immediately. See, for example:
- Martin Custom Shop D-28 1937 Vintage Low Gloss
- Martin Custom Shop D-28 1937 Vintage Low Gloss Ambertone
- Martin Custom Shop 000-28 1937 Vintage Low Gloss
Ready to get started?
Book a Custom Shop consultation – or stop by in Aarhus or Copenhagen.