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Ludwig Blue Vistalite Year Identification

bowtie ludwig supraphonic transition vistalite
Posts: 10 Threads: 5

Hello there, I have an old Ludwig Vistalite that I've saved from my grand parents garage. I tried to contact the Ludwig company but they don't provide any e-mail address to get in touch. And since I'm living in Asia, international phone calls is not an option.

I've tried to identify the age of this kit but the serial number guide provided on the Ludwig website left me hanging. All the serial numbers on each drums have different 7-digit numbers. I can only upload one of them since this forum only allows a maximum of 5 pics. The serial number on the rack tom reads: 1508399. If I'm correct, it might be made either in 1978 or 1979. I'm not sure because the Blue and Olive guide only states XXXXXXX (7 digits).

On the second story, I have purchased a Supraphonic snare drum. But instead of having the imperial lugs, I have the bowties. I was told that it was made in 1984 when Ludwig moved from Chicago. It was done in a rush due to that reason.

I hope you guys could shed some light for a more accurate date, or point out that I'm wrong (I'm okay with that, just shoot me).

Rgd, Amir.

Posted on 10 years ago
#1
Posts: 2264 Threads: 83

Can't help but nice find and nice setup!

The greatest gift you can give your family and the world is a healthy you. - Joyce Meyer
Posted on 10 years ago
#2
Posts: 102 Threads: 20

Can't help you on the snare, but I can give you some ideas on the Vistas. Because of the 3 screw mounting on the tone control it is definitely post 1975. According to Geir's serial number guide 1508399 would be around 1976ish. The serial number guide for the BO badges on the Ludwig site has some holes:)

Posted on 10 years ago
#3
Posts: 1880 Threads: 292

Your snare might be late 80's or early 90's, judging by the badge..

I have a similar badge on my floor tom, which is the larger aluminum keystone badge.. You can check out vintagedrumguide.com to determine the exact year..They have a badge section to identify your drums.. Hope this helps..

Posted on 10 years ago
#4
Posts: 532 Threads: 29

From qualendi

........On the second story, I have purchased a Supraphonic snare drum. But instead of having the imperial lugs, I have the bowties. I was told that it was made in 1984 when Ludwig moved from Chicago. It was done in a rush due to that reason.

That's correct!! Your snare looks exactly like 84 (as one of mine) with badge almost just below hoop

Good luck!!


Ludwig '67 Classic B.D.P.
Ludwig '79 Classic Pro-beat
C. A. F. '72 New Sonic "The Argentinean Ludwig"
A bunch of Ludwig snares..... + Dyna & P.Tone.
and always trying to recover some orphan drums!!
Posted on 10 years ago
#5
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