9” K Zildjian experimental Roto Sound type No. 1 [pre-serial] 1745g

9” K. Zildjian experimental Roto Sound type No. 1 [pre-serial] 1745g. Now this is exactly the kind of oddity we love finding.

A spectacular and possibly unique 9” K. Zildjian sound effect cymbal, weighing an astonishing 1745g. No bell, extremely heavy in the centre and strongly tapered towards the edge. And stamped into the bronze is one intriguing little number: 1.

Why is that important?

Paiste produced its famous Roto Sound in three sizes: 9” No. 1, 8” No. 2 and 7” No. 3. Heavy bronze discs mounted vertically in a special rotating holder. Strike one and it produces an extremely long, bell-like sustain; rotate it while ringing and you get the characteristic modulation.

And this K. Zildjian is remarkably similar to the Paiste No. 1.

Same 9” diameter. Same No. 1 designation. Similar construction and taper. And, most strikingly, an extremely long sustaining tone remarkably similar to the Paiste 9” Roto Sound.

Yet I cannot find this instrument in any Zildjian catalogue or as a documented production model.

It may be an experimental K. Zildjian sound disc, prototype or factory test piece. I won’t turn speculation into history, but this is a genuine stamped K. Zildjian unlike anything I have encountered in the regular catalogue.

Approximately 6mm thick around the centre hole, tapering to around 2.5mm at the edge, with a visible outer machining/tuning zone. Beautiful edges and exceptionally well preserved.

Included is a custom-made replica rotating holder based on the Paiste Roto Sound holder. The holder is newly made and is not an original Zildjian or Paiste component.

A seriously intriguing piece of cymbal history. Find me another one.

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

DropShop Drums
FOR & BY
EAR & EYE

#zildjian #kzildjian #vintagezildjian #prototype#dropshopdrums