C.F Martin & Co., Inc. has been creating the finest instruments in the world for more than 175 years.

Over the years, Martin, founded in 1833, has developed an unparalleled reputation for dedication to exceptional quality and focus on one product: superbly well-crafted acoustic guitars.

Dick Boak is one of the dedicated craftsmen who has helped bolster Martin's reputation.

While working as an art teacher in 1973, he discovered C. F. Martin & Co. and was soon hired as a design draftsman.

"Coming from an art and music background, the job was the perfect compromise of my different passions," said Boak in a phone interview.

Since then and for the past 32 years, Boak has held many and diverse creative positions there, leading to the formation of Martin's Artist Relations Department and more than 148 signature guitar collaborations with legendary musicians, including Eric Clapton, Tom Petty, Willie Nelson, John Mayer and Johnny Cash (a Martin in black, of course).

"C.F. Martin & Co." (Arcadia Publishing, "Images of America" series, 128 pp.) is coauthored by Boak, Director: Museum and Archives, Special Projects, C. F. Martin & Co., and Christian Frederick Martin IV, Chairman and CEO, C. F. Martin & Co. and great-great-great-grandson of the company's founder.

The book traces the remarkable development of the acoustic guitar through six generations of Martin family members who have managed the business from 1833 to today.

The book does so through 200 vintage images, many of which have never been published, and chronicles the evolution of the iconic guitar business.

Boak admits "the easy part was having all the pictures, but the real task was in putting them together in a way that made sense and told the history of Martin in a fluid way."

Boak is hoping that his new book will have similar success to his first, "Martin Guitar Masterpieces," which told the behind-the-scenes stories of projects for specific artists, including the firm's limited edition guitars.

In the Arcadia book, Boak captures the buildings, employees, musicians and exquisite instruments that have contributed to a lasting legacy.

"Some people think I have the best job in the world," Boak said. "I guess I must agree, as I get to work on great little books about Martin guitars, like this one."

Boak can regularly be found at Martin Guitar Co., 510 Sycamore St., Nazareth, and has been known to come down from his office to sign copies of his publications and assist in museum tours.

Boak believes there is something special for all ages to be found at C.F Martin Guitar Co. and encourages the public to schedule a factory tour, purchase the book, and visit the museum this holiday season.

Information: martinguitar.com, 610-759-2837