Julian Bream’s 1880 Martin 0-28 💫

 

JULIAN BREAM’S EARLY MARTIN GUITAR

It’s rare for a day to go by without something special turning up. But every now and then, something truly exceptional does.

Coming up for auction on 11th December 2026 is this C.F. Martin 0-28, circa 1880, purchased by Julian Bream’s father for his 15-year-old son in 1948.

Bream used the guitar during the formative years of his career, including recitals between 1948 and 1952, most notably his debut recital at Wigmore Hall in 1951.

Julian Bream (1933–2020) was one of the most influential classical guitarists of the 20th century, playing a pivotal role in bringing the guitar to a wider concert audience and inspiring generations of players through his performances and recordings.

Bream sold the guitar to a private collector in 1992, where it has remained until the present day.

We are delighted to offer this rare Martin with such remarkable provenance in our forthcoming December 2026 Specialist Guitar Auction.