I guess the most logical conclusion is that the bd hoops are non original and the kit was pieced together? Regardless, can't wait to put them to the test.

I don't see that at all. The silver painted hoops are most likely factory as that was a Gretsch "thing" on some black sets. The silver paint will match the aluminum stuff they used on the shell interiors. If the hoops are painted silver that would also indicate that the black wrap is original in all likelehood since someone rewrapping the drums was unlikely to have done the silver hoops with black inlays.

Those sizes go together well and two different badges is also something Gretsch did during transitions between different badge styles.

I think that's a set someone ordered sometime in 1980 (when the metal bass drum hoops were long gone) right as Gretsch was changing the badge design and also just before they switched to their new Techware hardware.

The factory double tom mount would imply that at one time there was likely a 13 or 15 inch tom included with the set that has been lost at some point.

At least that's what I see based on one picture and the limited info at hand. I guess you'll find out.

I hope you are right. I have never had an 18 inch floor tom so I am pretty stoked about that. It was a real interesting chain of events with Guitar Center. Basically, the district manager stepped in with the help of the store's manager to make this right.

Be sure to let us know what you got when they arrive.

Congrats Verm. By the way, you've been buying up kits like they're going out of style (I guess they have!!) How many are you up to these days?

Yes - a great deal! You got the drums for the price of the badges and a bit pretty much.

They will make a very nice players' kit. I have a Gretsch kit with a 24" bass drum and it rocks...........thunder.

You might want to jump on this to "complete" the set.

http://www.drumforum.org/index.php?/topic/123619-gretsch-non-drop-g-ssb-black-nitron-9x13/

I have seven including this one. I purged everything last month with the exception of my 58 Ludwig. So you are correct. I have bought six kits in the past month. I Love it man.

It does not allow me access because I am not a member. I tried joining a few months ago and I never heard back

Ok, I just set up a new account and pm'do him. Thanks man