Back to navigation


And Then There Were 35!





This article was


Written By





Our Product Research Team





Get to know them!





What better way to ring in Gretsch Drums’ 140th anniversary than with a special edition commemorative kit? This Limited-edition 140th-anniversary 4-piece Shell Pack is one of just 35 US examples in its configuration, coming handcrafted with extreme precision and dressed to the nines for matchless sound and aesthetics. Its unique hybrid plying fuses maple’s warmth with poplar’s smoothness and gumwood’s dense impact, producing a sound that’s full, balanced, and packed to the brim with tonal character across the board. Exclusive nickel-plated hardware ? including rock-steady die-cast hoops ? offers a handsome sheen unavailable on any other Gretsch model. Transport your shells in first class via a charming set of included 140th-anniversary cases, and add the artisan-signed certificate of authenticity to your musical shrine! For Gretsch fanatics and pundits of percussion, you won’t find a nicer 4-piece out there!





Related Videos: Limited-edition 140th-anniversary 4-piece Shell Pack - Ebony Stardust Lacquer





NOW PLAYING:


Gretsch Drums: A Firsthand Look at Premium Craftsmanship 140 Years in the Making





What’s So Great About Buying Drums from Sweetwater?


Unparalleled hybrid tone





We shouldn’t be surprised at this point ? 140 years of perfecting the craft is more than enough time for Gretsch Drums to churn out a tonewood combo for the ages. An earthy concoction of maple, poplar, and gum, the hybrid plying of the Limited-edition 140th-anniversary 4-piece Shell Pack boasts a lineup of woods previously only broken out in trio for special occasions, like the USA Custom Ridgeland snares and historic Gladstone snares. Maple provides that traditional punch drummers crave and a warm tonality that’s a studio mix’s best friend. Poplar mediates the frequencies for exceptional balance, while gumwood brings up the low-end with a deeper, authoritative presence. The result? Superior tone, full body, and natural equalization for the stage and studio.





Shells only. Cymbals, pedals, and other hardware not included.


Shells only. Cymbals, pedals, and other hardware not included.


Exclusive hardware appointments





As you might expect, the shell hardware of this limited edition kit follows suit with incomparable professionalism. Die-cast hoops are key players here, working to strengthen intonation and add durability, enormous presence, focused cut, and defined cross-sticking and rimshotting. And did we mention that their nickel-plating is an exclusive, one-of-a-kind option not found on any other Gretsch Drums model? How’s that for commemorative? Classic Gretsch Drums lugs, tension rods, and claw hooks join in the nickel-plated revelry as well, supplying just as much rattle-free and properly intonated playability as curb appeal. This is a kit for the ages topped off with traditional Gretsch Drums round badging!





Elegant anniversary travel cases





Of all the soft drum cases we’ve come across over the decades here at Sweetwater, perhaps none compare to the elegance of Gretsch Drums’ 140th Anniversary included set. Schemed in a dark tan and black two-tone with cream-white accenting, these soft cases ensure that your five shells make it to your destination securely and stylishly. Donning proud 140th Anniversary logos in ultra-classic 1883 font, this is the cream of the Gretsch crop! Ergonomic carry handles and convenient shoulder straps offer comfortable and hands-free transport to your every gig, rehearsal, and recording session.





140 years of percussion perfection





After 14 decades of premiere drum building, a proper celebration is undoubtedly in order for Gretsch Drums! From humble beginnings in 1883, Friedrich Gretsch started crafting drums, tambourines, and banjos in the original Brooklyn, New York, location. More than a century later, the pulse of Gretsch Drums beats on louder and stronger than ever with a series of gorgeous and extremely limited commemorative models. When you celebrate the occasion with Sweetwater, you receive a stunning piece of Gretsch Drums history and a certificate of authenticity with the signatures of every individual craftsperson from the Ridgeland, South Carolina-based factory who contributed to your special-edition instrument. Whether you’re a lifelong Gretsch devotee or an enthusiast with an appreciation for fine drum building, don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to own an archival piece of the Gretsch Drums legacy.





Gretsch Drums 140th-anniversary 4-piece Shell Pack Features:


Limited run of 35 US models in this specific configuration


Maple/poplar/gum hybrid plying delivers classic tone with superior balance and impactful punch


Exclusive nickel-plated hardware finish not found on any other Gretsch Drums model


Traditional Gretsch Drums round badging provides a timeless charm


Exclusive Ebony Stardust Lacquer shell finish not found on any other Gretsch Drums model


Die-cast hoops offer durability, pro-grade intonation, and an enthusiastic presence


4-piece anniversary soft case set with ergonomic carry handles and shoulder straps


Artisan-signed certificate of authenticity included


Handbuilt in Ridgeland, S.C.


Shells only. Cymbals, pedals, and other hardware not included.