While I think you intended that as a complement (I hope). I do not believe I'm a zealot, a term which closely verges on fanaticism!

And while I do have very specifc ideas concerning the treatment of vintage cymbals, as I do about antiques in general, I do not think I evangelize, which other than trying to convert someone to Christianity usually means trying to passionately persuade others to accept and follow your belief system.

I do strongly express my opinions based upon my experiences and limited understanding of the subject, but the decision to clean or buff cymbals is just as valid as my decision to not clean. It does not damage a cymbal (usually) but it will make a vintage cymbal less interesting to me and others.

I'm far from an expert on vintage drums, although I do have an interest. I'm sure similar analogies could be made with regard to the treatment of vintage drums by those who are knowledgeable versus those who are new to it.

Absolutely!!!...it was meant as a compliment. You are always there with an eager hand of support. You are correct. My word choice should have been "enthusiast". For that, I apologize. You are a wonderful source of information where cymbals are concerned.

While I appreciate the compliment, I am far from being an expert on the subject. Others here like Drumaholic are the real experts, and my limited knowledge pales in comparison.