I’m thinking about making an offer on this 26” Ludwig, but have no clue as to a fair price. I’ve never come across a black oyster and it matches my b/o super classic...
https://austin.craigslist.org/msg/d/austin-ludwig-vintage-bass-drum-26/7043757925.html
I'm stumped on price, but as it has it's share of scars and cosmetic issues, including the notched out batter hoop, I would offer less. That bowling ball OBP isn't that rare, but to find a BD in 26" size is. Just a guess, but I would offer $700 and see what the seller says.
These have been sustaining their value, especially considering when the "B" word is attached... Also, it does have a hoop "mod" that I would assume was put there to accommodate a larger pedal base plate???
You may find a better priced drum in a different finish and consider recovering but that opens a whole big ole can of headache... Sometimes it pays to follow the axiom of "a bird in the hand..." and grab what's available, while it's available.
What do you think it's worth (especially since you haven't come across one before)?
It's also on Reverb, which should have some better pics: https://reverb.com/item/30812102-ludwig-bass-drum-3-ply-26-x14-1970-black-oyster-pearl
From judging what I’ve seen in 18” floor toms of the same era, I figured $800 would be a fair price. But given the condition of the hoop, I just don’t know.
Go with DrumBobs suggestion. Clear interior 26" are the best sounding Ludwig wood shells !! To me anywho !!
From judging what I’ve seen in 18” floor toms of the same era, I figured $800 would be a fair price. But given the condition of the hoop, I just don’t know.
I don't think your offer is unreasonable.
Hoops can have a wide price range depending on condition and quality (new/used - pristine/poor) - $50-150. I don't think you'd have much of a problem rotating the cut hoop between the next set of clamps while you wait for a new or used hoop to show up in the market. You should be able to locate a new one from one of the drum builder supply companies for just over $100 (plus tax & shipping).
This might be one of those situations where worth is whatever the buyer is willing to pay because 3-ply, 26-in kicks with clear interior kicks are rare. Having one in a that wrap is probably more rare. I can't recall seeing any others like it, but I haven't looked either.
I'd guess that it's been played without the reso head on and will have some dings on the bearing edge that won't affect the sound but could give you negotiating points.
You gotta love a BD with the original inlays still intact. Imo, that adds considerable value. When I see a bass drum with unmatched inlays, a missing inlay, or (gasp) a hoop with no inlay grooves, it really hurts my soul.
Looks like there has been an offer on Reverb...
Hopefully, the notch in the hoop hasn`t affected the inlay...
Cheers
