I'm not saying that it's not a nice example, I'm just commenting on the current re-sale market for these old kits. I love them myself, and have several that I'm working on, but I know what's involved with bringing these back to life. There are hours of work in disassembling and polishing, and treating the shells, not to mention the equipment and supplies you'll need. New heads alone could easily get you in for more than you'll get back. It's unfortunate, and I for one am hoping that the tide will turn, and that these nice old kits will increase in collectible value, but even here on this forum there are those who don't even take these Japanese stencils seriously. Sad to say, but even if these shells were fully polished and restored, I can't say that the shell pack would bring any more than $300 on ebay, and probably less here in the VDF community but I could be wrong. I'd actually prefer to be at this point. Yes, matching 8 lug snare, original hardware, and fully badged - full marks. I'd love to get my hands on it myself, (if I didn't already have too many) and I also really enjoy the restoration process, and find it very satisfying and I'm all for supporting the cause... bottom line; just trying to put the value thing into perspective - nice vintage kit, but not as valuable/collectable as your Ludwigs, Slingerland, Rogers, etc. and though it takes the same amount of effort to restore, it still won't command that kind of return.

On a different point - just noticed that these are the thicker shells, without re-rings. There is another thread going on a red sparkle kit that appears to be a similar period, (late 60s) that has shells with a lateral wood grain, and I myself have two stencils, (one Stewart, and one Coronet) that also share all the hardware cues, but both of these are three ply with re-rings. I find the Japanese stencil topic to be fascinating and always enjoy when something new is discovered. Just wondering if anybody has any insight on the varying shells from this period - I noticed a few members quoting actual 'model' names in these threads. When did these Japanese companies start extending their lines, and start offering shell options? I've seen some of the catalogs from this period, but don't recall them offering different shells until the fiberglass option came along. Perhaps if the history of the whole MIJ phenomenon were definitively documented, it might help to gain some appreciation for these nice old kits...but then again, the mystery is a big part of the fun.

Thanks for all of the feedback. I am really excited to get these things cleaned up, replace the heads and really see what they sound like. These drums are in really good shape for their age. No seperating seams, everything is tight. I have a question about the interiors? Is it advisable to lightly sand these? Also, should I seal the interiors? If so, what product would you all recommend and would this affect the sound? Right now, the toms have a very nice deep tone to them. The kit looks like a Super Deluxe Outfit from 1968. That is the closest I can narrow it down, however it does not have a 22" bass drum.

Regards,

Dave

Jonnistix is in the process of collecting documentation to write a book about this. At least that is my recollection. I know that he and Mikey know so much about it that they have most of it covered, yet even they learn stuff on here. It really comes down to a community effort and when it finally comes together, a cumulative collection of knowledge on these will likely become a valuable resource in itself, much like Rob Cook's books.

When I encounter young drummers, I give a 10 minute tutorial on the stencil phenomenon and encourage then to find one and do the work - and that they will be richly rewarded with a great sounding kit will a boatload of character which will likely even feature a more cool wrap than their American counterparts.

John