I recently acquired a 60s Gretsch bass and tom. They had been in storage since 1972 and the black pearl wrap is in bad shape.
Here is a link to some pictures. BTW The extra hole in the tom is from a ludwig mount.
What to do? Try to fix (tips welcome) or rewrap?
Thanks,
P
I'd look for a 'project' 16" round-badge floor tom and rewrap the three drums at the same time. New kit for moderate investment.
John
John -- you and I think a LOT a like.
Pete -- yes, I say re-wrap, but get a FT to go with it first 'cause the wrap don't always match if there's a time period between your purchases. With the wrap in the condition it's in, this is basically only a players kit anyway.
You can cover any unwanted holes that way, too.
And, although I've only "un-wrapped" a few Gretsch drums, what I have had to do came off fairly easy.
Good luck,
Bill
Go for it! I've done many times it's fun and rewarding.
Yes , I wholeheartedly agree. Find a floor tom and rewrap. Those will make a georgous set. It is so rewarding when you can see and play the results of a kit you restored. Something you can enjoy for life if you so choose.
Good advice from all. I agree and strongly suggest finding a floor tom first and wrapping them all at once, or at very least buy enough wrap and stash it away for when you do find a floor tom. Of course, wear and fade start to come into play at that point.
Ok, got it. But: I really love how black pearl ages (I have a WFL BDP set that looks great). Also see the thread: "Need to stretch this vintage Gretsch wrap".
And why are Gretsch FTs so expensive ($500+ for damaged and incomplete 16")?
I think I'll try to separate the wrap and see if I can save it.
Tell me about it, I was bidding on one on ebay and it went for 511. Too rich for my blood. I have the same thing you have. Black pearl bass and tom but my wrap is in great shape. I just want to find a ft and somewhat matching wrap. Anyone know if anyone sells a wrap that is closer than Precision?
Funny, I was bidding on the same one, but stepped out as well.
I have a damaged 60s BDP Ludwig FT, the wrap is fine but not exactly the same (see pictures).
Does anybody have experience with transplants?
