A particularly interesting 20” Zildjian China High with an unusual laser serial: 03 28046-027.

The Avedis Zildjian branding and laser engraving place this cymbal within the 1994–2013 era, but the usual two-letter Zildjian date code is missing. This makes an exact production year impossible to confirm.

There are four possible explanations:

1. Prototype / Special Artist cymbal
Perhaps the most intriguing possibility. Non-standard serials are known on prototypes, test cymbals and cymbals intended for Zildjian artists or endorsers.

2. Factory / laser anomaly
A rare production error may have caused the normal two-letter year code to be omitted or replaced.

3. Special production
Zildjian has occasionally deviated from its standard serial system for special, commemorative or otherwise unusual production runs.

4. Possibly made in 2003
Most interestingly, the serial starts “03” exactly where the normal two-letter year code would appear. A standard 2003 Zildjian would normally carry JC. It is therefore possible that “03” was used directly to indicate 2003 on this unusual example. Without factory documentation this remains a theory, not a confirmed date.

Whatever its history, it’s a classic China High: bright, explosive, trashy and cutting, with plenty of projection.

Beautiful condition with strong original logos, light signs of use and no cracks or keyhole.

20” / 51 cm
Traditional finish
Made in USA

Pick-up in Zuid-Scharwoude, the Netherlands.
Worldwide insured shipping available.
Trade-ins welcome.
Yes, we speak Hollands, too.
Ask for Zildjianista Herman Jager.

www.dropshopdrums.nl
www.vintagezildjian.com

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