Martin 000-13E Eric Clapton Buyer’s Guide: Natural vs Sunburst

Few artist and guitar-maker partnerships have influenced modern acoustic music quite like Eric Clapton and Martin.

Now, the new Martin 000-13E Eric Clapton brings that celebrated association to a more accessible, performance-ready electro-acoustic guitar—available in two distinctive finishes: Natural Antique Toner and 1935 Sunburst.

Both versions combine Martin’s comfortable non-cutaway 000 body with a spruce top, beautifully figured ziricote fine veneer back and sides, an ebony fingerboard and discreetly integrated electronics. Eric Clapton’s signature is inlaid into the fingerboard, creating an unmistakable connection without overwhelming the guitar’s traditional appearance.

So, what makes this model different, why is the 000 body so closely connected to Clapton, and which finish should you choose?

Explore the Martin 000-13E Eric Clapton Natural Antique Toner

Explore the Martin 000-13E Eric Clapton 1935 Sunburst

Why Is Eric Clapton So Closely Associated with Martin Guitars?

Eric Clapton’s relationship with Martin stretches back more than three decades, but one performance changed how an entire generation viewed the acoustic guitar.

His landmark 1992 MTV Unplugged appearance placed the warm, expressive sound of a small-bodied Martin at the centre of one of the most influential acoustic performances of its era. It helped spark renewed interest in acoustic guitars and strengthened the connection between Clapton and Martin’s compact 000 body shape.

The partnership later produced a long line of sought-after signature instruments. The Martin 000-28EC, introduced in 1996, became one of the most successful artist models in Martin’s history.

The 000-13E Eric Clapton continues that story in a guitar intended to be played, performed and enjoyed regularly—not simply admired as a collector’s piece.

What Is the Martin 000-13E Eric Clapton?

The Martin 000-13E Eric Clapton is a non-cutaway 000-size electro-acoustic guitar created for players who want signature character, practical electronics and the comfortable proportions associated with Clapton’s acoustic instruments.

Its spruce top is paired with ziricote fine veneer back and sides, creating a striking visual connection to more exclusive ziricote instruments within the wider Clapton collection.

An ebony fingerboard carries Eric Clapton’s signature as an inlay, while the pickup and tuner are positioned discreetly around the soundhole. Cable access is provided through the strap button, avoiding the need for a large control panel in the side of the guitar.

The result is a traditional-looking Martin that is ready for home playing, recording, rehearsals and amplified live performance.

Why Choose a Martin 000-Size Acoustic Guitar?

The 000 body sits in a particularly useful position within the acoustic-guitar world.

It is more compact than a large dreadnought, making it comfortable for many players when seated or standing. Its manageable proportions naturally suit detailed playing, expressive phrasing and controlled accompaniment.

A 000-size guitar is often chosen by players interested in:

• Fingerstyle guitar
• Acoustic blues
• Singer-songwriter accompaniment
• Recording and home performance
• Articulate chord work
• Dynamic solo playing
• A more compact alternative to a dreadnought

The 000 format is not limited to quiet or delicate music. Its appeal comes from the level of control it gives the player, allowing subtle changes in touch, attack and dynamics to become part of the performance.

What Makes the 000-13E Eric Clapton Different?

A More Accessible Eric Clapton Signature Martin

Many Eric Clapton signature Martins have occupied the premium and Custom Shop end of the market. The 000-13E offers a more accessible opportunity to own a genuine Clapton signature model while retaining distinctive artist-specific details.

Ziricote-Inspired Visual Character

The back and sides use ziricote fine veneer, selected for its dramatic grain and rich visual character.

It is important to distinguish this from the solid ziricote used on substantially more expensive Custom Shop instruments. Martin officially describes the material on the 000-13E as ziricote fine veneer.

Discreet Electronics

The integrated pickup makes the guitar ready to connect to suitable acoustic amplification, recording equipment or a PA system.

The tuner is positioned discreetly at the soundhole, while the output connection is accessed through the strap button. This keeps the outside of the guitar looking clean and traditional.

Signature Ebony Fingerboard

Eric Clapton’s signature is inlaid into the ebony fingerboard rather than simply printed onto the instrument. It provides a permanent but tasteful connection to the artist.

Two Distinctive Finishes

The choice between Natural Antique Toner and 1935 Sunburst allows players to select the visual character that best reflects their taste without changing the core concept of the guitar.

Natural Antique Toner or 1935 Sunburst?

The two 000-13E Eric Clapton models share the same central design and specification. The main decision is therefore visual.

If you prefer a classic Martin that feels warm, elegant and understated, choose Natural Antique Toner.

If you want a more dramatic finish with stronger vintage character, choose 1935 Sunburst.

View the Natural Antique Toner model  |  View the 1935 Sunburst model

Who Is the Martin 000-13E Eric Clapton For?

The obvious audience includes Eric Clapton fans and Martin collectors, but the guitar’s practical appeal reaches much further.

It is particularly well suited to:

• Acoustic blues and fingerstyle players
• Singer-songwriters
• Players who find a dreadnought unnecessarily large
• Guitarists who need built-in electronics for live work
• Home-recording musicians
• Electric players looking for a comfortable acoustic
• Martin enthusiasts seeking a distinctive 000 model
• Clapton fans who want a signature guitar designed for regular use

The combination of compact proportions and onboard electronics makes it particularly attractive to working musicians who move between home, studio, rehearsal and stage.

Is the 000-13E Eric Clapton Suitable for Live Performance?

Yes. The integrated acoustic pickup allows the guitar to connect to compatible amplification or a PA system.

The soundhole-mounted tuner also gives the player a convenient way to check tuning without attaching an external tuner to the headstock. Its discreet position helps maintain the guitar’s traditional appearance.

For performers who want an acoustic that looks classic but arrives ready for amplification, this is one of the model’s most important advantages.

Is It Only for Eric Clapton Fans?

No. The artist connection is a major part of the story, but it should not be the only reason to consider the guitar.

A player who has never attempted a Clapton song can still appreciate the comfortable 000 body, spruce top, ebony fingerboard, integrated electronics and choice of traditional or sunburst finishes.

The strongest signature instruments work as excellent guitars in their own right. The artist association adds meaning and character rather than limiting who should play them.

How Does It Compare with the Custom Shop 000-42 Eric Clapton Ziricote?

The Custom Shop 000-42 Eric Clapton Ziricote sits in a very different part of the collection.

It uses premium Custom Shop construction, an Adirondack spruce top, more elaborate appointments and substantially more exclusive materials. It is aimed at collectors and players seeking the highest levels of Martin craftsmanship.

The 000-13E has a different purpose. It provides a more accessible, performance-ready route into the Eric Clapton signature family, with integrated electronics and key artist-specific details.

It should not be viewed as a less expensive version of the exact same guitar. It is a distinct model created for a different type of player and a different level of everyday use.

Fair Deal Music Expert Verdict

The Martin 000-13E Eric Clapton succeeds because it does not rely on the signature alone.

The Clapton connection gives the guitar history and identity, but the comfortable 000 body, discreet electronics and two carefully chosen finishes make it a practical instrument for modern players.

Natural Antique Toner offers the more traditional and understated appearance. The 1935 Sunburst delivers a stronger vintage visual statement. Neither is the “better” version—the right choice is the one that makes you want to pick it up and play.

For blues, fingerstyle, songwriting, recording and live acoustic performance, the 000-13E brings together heritage and everyday usability in a way that should appeal far beyond established Eric Clapton fans.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the Martin 000-13E Eric Clapton launch?

Both finishes launched on Friday 25 September 2026.

What finishes are available?

The Martin 000-13E Eric Clapton is available in Natural Antique Toner and 1935 Sunburst.

What is the body shape?

It uses Martin’s compact, non-cutaway 000 body format.

What is the top made from?

The guitar features a spruce top.

What are the back and sides made from?

Martin specifies ziricote fine veneer back and sides.

Is the ziricote solid wood?

No. Martin describes the material used on the 000-13E as ziricote fine veneer, so it should not be confused with the solid ziricote used on some premium Custom Shop models.

Does it have an ebony fingerboard?

Yes. Both versions feature an ebony fingerboard with Eric Clapton’s signature inlaid into it.

Does the guitar include a pickup?

Yes. An integrated acoustic pickup is fitted as standard.

Does it have a built-in tuner?

Yes. A discreet tuner is positioned at the soundhole.

Where is the output socket?

The output connection is accessed through the strap button, helping to preserve the guitar’s clean exterior.

Is it a cutaway guitar?

No. Both models use a traditional non-cutaway 000 body.

Which finish should I choose?

Choose Natural Antique Toner for a lighter, traditional Martin appearance. Choose 1935 Sunburst for a darker and more dramatic vintage-inspired look.

Is it suitable for live use?

Yes. The integrated pickup makes it suitable for connection to compatible acoustic amplification or a PA system.

Why Buy from Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you’re choosing one of the UK’s most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

• Friendly advice from experienced musical-instrument specialists
• Help choosing the right Martin model and finish
• Carefully handled and checked instruments
• Finance options on qualifying purchases, subject to status and terms
• Fast and secure UK delivery options
• Part-exchange and trade-in opportunities
• After-sales support from our Birmingham music store
• Thousands of musicians have chosen Fair Deal Music

Buy, Sell or Part Exchange

If you are thinking about upgrading your current acoustic guitar, Fair Deal Music may be able to accept suitable instruments and equipment in part exchange.

Trading in your existing gear can reduce the cost of your next purchase while avoiding the inconvenience of selling privately. Contact our team for a no-obligation valuation and discover what your current equipment could be worth towards a new Martin.

Choose Your Martin 000-13E Eric Clapton

Both models share the same Clapton-inspired 000 concept, practical electronics and performance-ready design. Your final choice comes down to the finish that feels most like your guitar.

Shop the Martin 000-13E Eric Clapton Natural Antique Toner

Shop the Martin 000-13E Eric Clapton 1935 Sunburst