Hi all,
Here’s another rare one that came my way.
A LITTLE HISTORY:
In 1929 Ludwig & Ludwig offered four new snare drum models that can be found in the Fall 1929 Ludwig Drummer Magazine. The new models were the Super-Sensitive, New Era-Sensitive, Super-Power and the Standard-Sensitive Model, the drum in this article. From what I have researched it looks like the Super-Sensitive Model was around from 1929 through 1936, whereas the New Era-Sensitive, Super-Power and Standard-Sensitive Models only lasted for 1-2 years (1929-30). Super-Sensitive Models are very collectible and somewhat rare in certain instances but the other three Sensitive Models are extremely rare and, in my opinion, highly collectible.
THE SHELL:
The previous owner had already polished the shell so I just cleaned it up a bit. The nob shell is in very good shape with no major dings or dents...kind of... There were two extra holes in the shell that looks like they were started (very crudely) near the edge of the shell and then through the bearing edge. I have no idea why this was done as these two holes are as useless as a turd in a punch bowl. Drainage from wet applied calf heads? I think not as there are already two openings internally on the fold-over that would more than handle any “drainage”. Fortunately the holes are not visible. The previous owner disclosed this to me before I purchased the drum so all is good.
THE HARDWARE:
The nickel plated hardware is all there and in good condition and polished up well. As usual the steel tension rods needed the most attention. The bummer here was the bottom rim (or top rim in some circumstances) that had no “Standard-Sensitive” engraving or stamp. There is always the chance that this was an oversight (omission) from the Ludwig factory but if this drum originally came with an engraved or stamped bottom or top rim then why would someone have swapped it out for an unmarked rim? Anyone out there in “vintage drum land” have a 14” engraved or stamped “Standard-Sensitive” bottom (or top) rim for sale?
As always feel free to weigh-in with your comments and similar stories...and...a bottom rim for your old buddy Mike...?
Enjoy!