For a limited time, rum fans with an extra $20,000 can pick up an incredible piece of strummable artwork, courtesy of C.F. Martin & Co. and Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum. The new limited edition six-strings, named “Homeward Bound” and “True Love,” are the latest releases in the venerable Ink & Wood line from Martin, with imagery and artwork from and inspired by the real-life work of Norman “Sailor Jerry” Collins.
C.F. Martin & Co., more widely known simply as “Martin Guitars,” has been producing high-quality instruments since 1833 and has revolutionized the industry with X bracing and the first dreadnought-sized guitar. Sailor Jerry, on the other hand, revolutionized tattoos as an art form, adorning sailors and veterans in World War II Honolulu with his unique hardline tattoo style and distinctive imagery. Collins, aka Jerry, created a style of tattoos which helped to define post-war American style and provided the inspiration for William Grant & Sons’ popular Sailor Jerry rum.
Collins’ work as Sailor Jerry was spread, in part, by Martin’s own Koa-wood guitars, which helped spread Hawaiian music, and culture, to the mainland after World War II. For Martin to now pay homage to Collins brings the Sailor Jerry story back to its origins and demonstrates the enduring appeal of the Sailor Jerry brand.
Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum’s Global Ambassador, Daniel “Gravy” Thomas, praised the partnership, saying that "being approached by Martin Guitars for this partnership shows the lasting impact that Norman Collins has had, not only in the tattoo world, but in greater pop culture as well." He added, "with Martin Guitar's legendary craftsmanship, this partnership is the ultimate compliment and testament to Norman's legacy."
These new guitars, while outside the price range of most rum fans (they start at $19,999), are works of art which promote the beauty and style behind Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum. Martin made use of state-of-the-art techniques to craft the instruments and the nautical and floral-themed artwork which makes them unique.
"Norman 'Sailor Jerry' Collins and the rum brand he inspired has a story that's both inspirational and unique," said C.F. Martin & Co. Custom Shop Director Scott Sasser. "His artistry transcends the tattoo world, and our work on the Ink & Wood series celebrates this."
The two guitars made their worldwide debut in California last month and will be seen at special events around the U.S. throughout 2019.