The further word is that A & Cie were discontinued some years ago when the Armand series came out. Later they reappeared for one year (I can't remember which: 2010?) in the Rarities program. Some shops still have them in stock. A & Cie were trying to recreate the late 40s 50s vibe. I've just gone and bought some A Zildjians of that era rather than chase A & Cie.Armands are trying to recreate the 60s vibe. You can usually find real 60s Zidljians cheaper. I certainly have, and I live at the end of the supply line. Yes real 60s ones aren't as shiny.
The story I heard from Memphis Drum Shop in Memphis, TN is that 2011 was the year. I bought my 16" A & Cie from them in 2011. So, I guess it could have been 2010 or 2011.
I had heard that the Cie line was modeled after the ones made "in the old days. Didn't know it was the 40s/50s. But, I agree, I'd rather have a trans stamp than a new one. I wish I could find an 18" trans stamp as thin as my Cie...1125 grams.
I've tried some of the Armands. For the most part, they're too heavy. The occasional Armand thin crash sounds good. Again, I agree that I'd rather have a 60s Zildjian.
Lynn
