a question .....i think the hardware is nickel ....they are kinda hazy, is it ok to give it a little polish. there is no pitting in anything( does nickel pit?)

Charles, no nickel doesn't pit, see if a magnet sticks to the rims, that way you'll know if there brass or steel?? also both chrome and nickel will get hazy on ludwig rims! but no you want to tear down the kit, and clean and lube all the hardware, you did good, i really like em!!!Jumping2

I bought my first Ludwig set in November and it's a 1964 Downbeat Champagne sparkle set up. It didn't have the sweet Downbeat snare, but I'm pretty sure I can live with the supra I got instead :). Mine are a bit closer to what was recommended to you in terms of getting the contemporary hardware, but it is a bit laughable about the bent 1400 cymbal stands.

It's been sheer h311 having to wait until next month when I finally come home to USA to be able to see and play them--and ship them to my new home in Europe.

Accordingly, since I still haven't been in their presence, I can only put up the pic I got from the original owner. I look forward to when I can post them in the gallery after sorting out one or two aspects (e.g, the original calf head that's been painted black).

So, yeah, I think you chose well! ;)

Wow, I knew they would be phatties!

I know where you can get some of those, in immaculate condition. PM for details. No, they aren't mine, and they are the real deal, not oine of my creations. However, when I am done with my WMP set, courtesy Mr Kevin, I really think most of you will like them, even tho they are unbadges MIJs. I have a complete surprise in store for you all.

so far they are the best sounding drums that ive heard .....in the past 27 years ive owned a few.

i took a couple pics of the inside of the bass drum and floor tom,so i thought id share

Time capsule stuff, right there!

Wow really nice kit! Congrats!

And 1964 to boot! Look at that red felt. Are they all from the same time, the badgers match closely?

i was told by the friend aquired them from, that they are 62s and all original same time ....other than his word and my internet searching, thats all i know

Well all i have to say is I GOT TO SEE THE DRUM PORN 1ST, I am very impressed with this kit, from all the photos charles showed me last night, this kit is an original time capsule right down to the washers, and he has the original ludwig tools for the kit, Bowing