Wow that set's a beauty. If you can get ahold of the L arm cymbal holder for the bass that would be at least one vintage piece I think would not only look cool but be pretty practical too. Even if you don't use it for a ride it could be a decent position for a nice small splash cymbal. Looking forward to seeing the photos when you get it completed.

Hi Dave, thanks much for posting the pic. The pic almost makes me want to cry, as I had a mint '62 luddy Set like this slip through my fingers do to a set of unbeleivable negligence by the seller of the Set. A horrible story, and I'll spare you all the horror.

Well, looks like some things you'll be needing is a stock luddy Telescoping Cymbal L-Arm for the Bass Drum, perhaps some new Rubber Crutch Tips for the BD Spurs, FL Tom Legs-Stands, etc, and I'd definitely replace at least the BD Head with a White Smooth Remo Head, With a Repro '60's Luddy Emblem for the "coolness factor" and the original factory look.

Many times, a decent drum shop will have mucho used cymbals just lying around collecting dust. IMO, you most important Cymbal will be the ride, and I would go with a nice Zildjian 20", or 22", and build your Cymbal Collection off that Cymbal, finding a crash, or two that will be compatible with the ride.

While yes, the eyes will play an important part to used Cymbal selection, insuring that you're not buying one that's cracked, bent, or terribly keyholed, etc., your ears too will have to be the judge, and it always helps to get second opinions too when you shop. Don't necessarily trust the salesman's ears, or the owner's ears, as he might say anything just to see you make the purchase. Bring a freind if you can, who has some drum experience with you.

The old Barkeeper's Freind scrubbing powder will make any vintage grimy Cymbal come back looking like factory new in a matter of minutes with very little elbow grease, so don't be put off that the cymbal/cymbals look old, have tape/tape marks, grunge, etc. More important is to look out for the defects I mention above. Some people never clean cymbals, or if they do, it's like once every 6 years. me, I like my stuff looking decent. I'm not so anal that cleaning them properly is going to ruin the sound.

With some consideration, good common sense, and following some the vintage collectors creed like, ("Thou will drill no extra holes in my kit!) you should be not only able to put together an absolutely killer looking set, but also one that sounds killer too.

There's lots of highly knowledgeable people here in this group, who will gladly help you with any future questions, and advice. Ebay will be a good source for parts, as so will here for some of your vintage Luddy needs like the Cymbal L-Arm, etc. Best of luck, Mark