This seems a bit early for Zildjian to be labeling cymbals for their function.

How do you know they are mid 50s?

I had a pair of late 50s (small stamp, no dots) Bop Flange Hats that were ink stamped. BTW I've seen a lot of these hats listed for big bucks lately. Not worth the extra $$ IMO.

Hi TD

I agree it seems a bit early but the seller really seems like a straight shooter and assures me the ink label is there albeit it can't be seen in these photos provided. Hopefully I'm right on the dating given the stamps but then again I am no expert. Either way it's not far from my house and I'm going to take a look- I'm just wondering bout that crash not that I'd ever crash on it! but ya never know.

V182

Sorry, regardless of the stamp, I can't get my head around a 26" crash. (even w/ a thinner construction & crash profile, It seems that it would sound out for a long time, be slow to respond, & take quite a wallop to start). However, I can picture it having a sweet spot to make a great ride. (BTW, I play a late 1940's 28" Zildjian, which is a very controllable ride. I especially like large sizes, & would definitely suggest you try to get these 26's)

Thanks for the reply,

What year do you put the stamps in? The price is fairly hefty for me-somewhere around 1600.00 for both is the asking. No keyholing/fleabites but there are some scuffs and some what appear to be "unlathed parts" near the bell of the ride. Another question is when did Zildjian ink stamp cymbals for their designed purpose? Without insulting what would be a good offer?

I believe you're right about the 50's date. The prices are all over the place. I've found 26"s for $600, 750, 1000, 1400 ( all asking, Buy it now prices) & a post on this site for a completed sale of $1500. I think the $1500 is a fluke, & the $1000 & above are over reaching. Your cymbals at $800 each, strike me as a top retail price. (as an investment , you may have to wait a long time to ever recover your money). However as a player, there's something to consider. It would be best if you could try them out ahead of time. If this is a long distance deal, it could be a big risk.

I wouldn't expect you to be able to. You'd have to have a pretty huge head for that.

They've been stamping ink type/thickness designations on cymbals since the 1930's.

The literature says they made crash cymbals up to 25", but that doesn't mean anything. They called this one a crash, but it's whatever you want it to be. That's a pretty thin cymbal for a 26", so it may not be as suitable for riding as you might want it to be unless played with a light stick and a gentle touch. The wash might over-power the stick, but you won't know until you actually try it out.

I have a 26" trans-stamp that i just adore and use it on gigs. Mine's 4414g and wobbles like it's going to take flight. I agree the price is high for the current economy but it's your money, if you like them and can afford them, good luck!

Gary

Hi, This is kinda off topic but, If it comes to it, and your not keen on buying the 2 26ers, I'm interested in both, so If for example you wanted the ride, but not the crash or vice versa, I would love the chance to get one of them. But thats a very last option because obviously your buy but If your mind changes, Let me know please :)

Cheeers