Ok Guys. Finally getting around to this snare. The snare wires seem off to me. They are New Era so seems like the correct brand, if I'm not mistaken, but are much shorter than I would have expected. The cords holding the snares are short not allowing the throw-off to fully engage so makes me think someone may have tried a different set of wires than was original. Unfortunately a few of the wires are stretched so it needs to be replaced. Any Premier/Olympic guys know the correct length of snares I should be looking for? Just the normal size for a 14" snare or were the ones for these snares purposefully shorter?Thanks,Wes
Hey Wes!
I remember that snare. Glad to see you giving it some love. Ok, here's some information for you:
- That drum is from the last 50's. It's hard to find them (over here, anyways), especially with the badge intact. The badge is foil over cardboard, and was known to deteriorate quick easily. Check this out: http://www.vintageolympic.co.uk/badges.html
- The number "39" inside. Most likely has to do with that particular snare model's number. My 60's Olympic 1182 has an "11", or "82" in it (can't remember which one off the top of my head.
- I believe that drum is Birch shell, with Beech re-rings, same as mine.
- Magnet test the hoops and lugs, good chance they're COB.
- RE: Snare wires. Yup, you have the original, and correct wires (New Era-Made in England). I attached a picture of mine, I measured them, they're 13" across...so, my guess is yours are as well.
Here's what I suggest: 1) If you want to keep it original, clean them up, realign them, and leave. 2) If you want to play, and enjoy the drum, take off and put aside the original wires and wires cables, replace with new ones-play.
I've left my Olympic alone, all cleaned up, with all original components on. However, if I decide to play it for real (gigs, studio, etc), then I'll swap out the wires/cables for new ones.
I love the look/patina of your drum. I would recommend stripping it all down, and give just a good, but thorough cleaning, and that's it. Warm, soapy water, clean rags...that type of thing. Some white lithium grease for the lugs, and boom.
Hope this helps, beautiful drum ;)