Hello!

I recently purchased a 1956 John Grey Autocrat kit that came with everything original. Along with the kit, snare, hardware, original seat, was included a suitcase full of original odds and ends (cowbell, a pair of brushes, original drumstick holder etc.) - this was the suitcase that originally came over with the kit in the 1950s from London to Sydney, Australia.

The question I have is regarding the cymbals. According to the seller the cymbals are original too, but I have no idea what they are. According to Catalogs the 50s John Grey kits came with Zyn cymbals but these don't appear to be Zyn. The 20" ride is stamped with what looks like "R E X" and the 14" hi hats have a logo (which seems to mimic the star and moon of Zildjian logos) and the name "Crescent"

Any ideas??

Photos attached

Hi .....The drums look to be in top notch condition. Top of the range john grey autocrat. The cymbals originally were the zyn cymbals. The original drummer obviously wanted better cymbals and went for the ones you have there. I dont have a clue as to makers. On the forum ask Zenstat he knows all about paiste and zildjian and might shine a light for you. I say this if they sound good then thats all that matters. Getting back to the drums. The snare drum do you have the original wires fitted which went right over the head onto 2 plastic blocks held in at strainer and butt with a pin. I have same snare drum in immaculate condition in BDP with original wires. Also mine has the john grey makers stamp inside although a bit faded. Take more detailed pics and put the drums in the gallery. Once again a top looking kit. Another fine kit made in england.....sean

That is a gorgeous kit, I love the aqua looking finish.

What a dream kit! Hit me up if you ever tire of it, haha!

Originally Posted by oscarborris

Hello!

I recently purchased a 1956 John Grey Autocrat kit that came with everything original. Along with the kit, snare, hardware, original seat, was included a suitcase full of original odds and ends (cowbell, a pair of brushes, original drumstick holder etc.) - this was the suitcase that originally came over with the kit in the 1950s from London to Sydney, Australia.

The question I have is regarding the cymbals. According to the seller the cymbals are original too, but I have no idea what they are. According to Catalogs the 50s John Grey kits came with Zyn cymbals but these don't appear to be Zyn. The 20" ride is stamped with what looks like "R E X" and the 14" hi hats have a logo (which seems to mimic the star and moon of Zildjian logos) and the name "Crescent"

Any ideas??

Photos attached

REX, is UFIP.

I too was going to say UFIP. Back in the old days, there were few cymbals choices. You got Zildjian, or you settled for something less. UFIP was the stencil cymbal maker of the day, in that they made cymbals under various names, like Zenjian, Alejian, Zyn, etc. They were all names reminiscent of Zildjian.

I think those Crescents are Italian stencils. They can be very nice, likely a step up from the stock Zyns.

Very nice set!!

Cheers

Cool JG kit. I had a Broadway model for a while.