I always look at the grommet on the badge from the interior. You can always tell if it was a factory job because it has a rolled over interior edge just like on the exterior, but with a smaller bead. On a rewrap, there is often crimping or asymmetry, and the metal just flares out to flat against the shell.

Re-rolling grommets is definately a pain. I made my own tool.. looks kind of like the one Kentuckydrums sells on ebay... mine worked fair.

Maybe if the rewrap is that good... it doesn't matter.Cool Dude

There are almost now re-wrap coverings available that match the '50s and Slingerlands.

If the drums are the glass glitter type, other than the different shadecurrently available that don't match the old ones, the new glitter finishes are smooth, the old ones are bumpy like an orange peel.

The current confetti or sparkle type of silver sparkle and gold sparkle is similar to the old ones, but there's more space between the confettis on the new stuff.

The blue and black onyx available now is very similar to the old blue and grey agate.

The champagne looks much different as do the satin flames.

Many of the odd finishes, like capri and the veils aren't available at all.

Also, as mentioned, check the grommets and position of the seams.

ALL:

Appreciate the feedback I've received thus far!

However, in regard to the grommets, it's my understanding that Slingerland toms with date stamps from 1960 wouldn't have badges on them. Am I mistaken in this regard?

The toms that I'm looking at are covered in what I believe Slingerland officially labeled a "Sparkling Blue" finish, which was manufactured between 1948 and 1986, according to Rob Cook's publication, "The Slingerland Book."

Should this particular wrap, if original, have what Rick K. describes in his feedback as an "orange peel" feel to it in lieu of a "smooth" finish?

Also, would the "sparkling blue" wrap be considered a "glass glitter" finish or a "sparkle" finish? I never quite understood the difference between the two. Is it the spacing of the confettis in the wrap or is there something else to it?

THANKS AGAIN for your help!

I can't speak for the "Sparkling Blue" finish but my "Sparkling Pink" kit definately has the orange peel feel to it. The glass glitter is deeper whereas the sparkle has a more uniform hexagonal fleck to it. As for the badges my 66 Slingerland kit has badges on the bass drum and snare, no toms. I have an older 9x13 tom that is an add on which has a badge. I can't seem to find out if it was put on or if it came that way. Good luck

It's correct that Slingerland didn't put badges / grommets on their toms until the mid '60s.

Another thing to check regarding originality are the edges of the wrap...compare them to ones you know are original

The available blue sparkles and glitters won't match the originals.

http://www.vintagesnaredrums.com/drcjw/article_4_finishes10.htm

My two cents worth. Early to mid 50's Slingys also had the wrap and the outer ply of the drum interlaced also. Makes for a pain to rewrap, which is the predicament I'm currently in...