Gary,

As you know, condition is a vital factor, as is timing, in what a buyer will pay.

There is also the vital subjective element.

In Dec,2010, I won all 3-ply Progressive Jazz set (including matching 4"snare and calf heads... top and bottom... on each drum) in superb condition, for $5,010, shipped, on Ebay. That extra $10 put me on top!Jump For Joy

What had me determined to have this set was the fact that, in 1963 an almost identical set (with a 5.5 snare) in black nitron had been stolen from me!

Now, $500 or so worth of calf heads, a detail which might not have mattered to other potential bidders, provided a further rationalization for the indulgence.

Aside from the calf, an important factor in determining price is the rarity of the 3 ply 14x14.

Later... more luck and timing... after realizing that I wouldn't be playing the 4" snare, (I already had a matching 6 ply 5.5) I was fortunate to net $1,700 from its consignment sale.

So, after the sale of the snare drum, I ended up with a superb... indeed, to my mind, matchless... set that cost no more than an equivalent new top-of-the-line Gretsch and less than Sonors or Craviottos.

Bottom line.. it's all subjective.

Ron

Great story Ron

Ya - it is 'subjective' when dealing with what folks want and how much they're willing to pay to have it.

I picked up my 20/12/14 with matching 5.5 snare (the subject kit here) for $900. But that included an Old Stamp 18.5 K Zildjian (worth what I paid for everything and more I think), 14 A Zildjian hats (early 60's) and some WFL hardware....and awesome find. So I'm not out any money here.

I tucked calfhide on all the drums too.....American White...very nice. And I also found - on eBay - a 1950's Ludwig 22" mounted (Ludwig stamp still visible) head that I retucked for the bd. I had to customize the wood flesh-hoop (cut it down.....and the hide of course). It still has life in it believe it or not.

I do not have the 3ply 14 floor but the good thing is - it came with the kit from the factory......what I'm saying it is not an add-on. Transitional thing when Gretsch was switching from 3 to 6ply.

If I did sell these drums.....and it is not in the picture right now.....I would not let these beauties go cheap. They are Gold as far as I'm concerned. I have a new (2011) shellpack....signed by Fred & Paul Cooper at the factory. They are very personal and special to me. But, I can tell you without hesitation my late 50's/1960(?) Gold Sparkle Gretsch kit is just as, if not more, special to me. I've waited decades to have the oportunity to buy them. What makes them even more special is the fact that I rescued them. They were hugely neglected, a few parts missing and damaged here and there. What a great learning experience it was to restore them.

You have a treasure there with your 3ply Gretsch kit Ron. Congratulations on your win. It is a beauty.

Cheers,