Project Description
This kit came to me as a PX on a vintage round badge Olympic and I was very pleased it did as it’s quite rare. The Gretsch Elite was the fore-runner to the Catalina range. launched in 2001 it shares the same classic 6 ply construction as the Renown/USA models but in mahogany with familiar 30 degree bearing edges. This is a really nice spec; 20×16, 14×14, 12×9 and also uses the standard size Gretsch lugs as found on the USA ranges (lost with the Catalina as it looked too close to a USA kit!). Add that it’s in a very nice dark walnut lacquer with USA style badges it was begging for a bit of an upgrade so this is what has been done:
- All shells and hardware stripped and cleaned / polished
- Shell interiors painted to Gretsch silver spec
- New Grestch USA 2019 base drum holder fitted
- Bass drum hoops re-finished in satin black with chrome inlays
- Gretsch USA die-cast claws fitted
- Die cast hoops fitted to the 12 and 14 toms
- New Evans Calftone head and ‘Broadkaster’ logo added
I’ll probably upgrade the spurs and floor leg mounts as I find more USA parts.
All in all a nice update and refresh of a great sounding kit. One which will sit in my stable for a while I think! But, if you’re interested in buying it please get in touch.