# Facts About Zildjian Cymbals You Might Be Surprised to Learn *By James Hills — Updated January 2019* When one thinks about musical instruments, chances are that cymbals aren't going to top the list but when you think about it they are incredibly important to rock and roll as well as other bands. However, when you look deeper you can discover that they and in fact, their most famous maker have a pretty fascinating history. We love Zildjian Cymbals, here's some history and trivia that you might be surprised to learn ... ## Zildjian is the oldest company in the United States!  Zildjian or Avedis Zildjian Company was founded in 1623 during the Ottoman Empire but is now based in Norwell Massachusetts. ### Lucky Catch Cruises: Authentic Lobster Boat Experience Perfect For a Maine Guys Trip Experience authentic lobstering in Portland with real traps, conservation lessons, and hands-on immersion. Perfect cruise excursion combining Maine's lobster culture with premium Casco Bay scenery. 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Viator (affiliate) [See Current Price](https://ads.flowmediamarketing.com/go/pJZJ2vKpuLwFCp_Cjex7Mg.569) Promoted by FlowAds ## What Does Zildjian Mean? Translated literally from Turkish, Zildjian means "Cymbal Maker Son Of". Avedis Zildjian was given the name by Sultan Osman II. ## How Did Zildjian Get Started? The first Zildjian cymbals were created in 1618 by Avedis Zildjian who was an alchemist looking for a way to turn metal into gold. During the process of experimentation, he created an alloy combining tin, copper and silver. Quickly it was discovered that when flattened into a sheet that it could make musical sounds. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that the company's products were used for musicians. Up till that point, the company's focus was manufacturing noisemakers designed to frighten enemies of the Ottoman Empire! ## Man Gear Pick of the Month September's Pick Amazon (affiliate) ### Kenyon City Grill Portable Stainless Steel Electric Grill Why we picked it: a grill you can actually carry to the campsite, the tailgate or the cabin without borrowing a truck. Stainless, no propane tank to wrestle, and hot enough to cook for four guys rather than reheat for one. 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Zildjian's secret process is only fully shared among heirs - something that has worked successfully for more than 400 years! ## When Did Zildjian Move to the United States? Avedis III, Aram and Puzant Zildjian began manufacturing cymbals in Massachusetts as the Avedis Zildjian Co. which was formed on September 19, 1929. While they were in competition with the original K Zildjian company still based in Turkey, the family began a series of innovations including developing the first "drum-set cymbals" and gave names such as ride, crash, splash, and hi-hat to different styles of cymbals.  ## How Did Zildjian Become the "Choice" of Top Drummers? In addition to being among the best cymbals produced by any company in the world, Armand Zildjian launched an effort to hand-select specific cymbals that the company produced and presented them to top drummers. It was this outreach and close personal relationships with the top percussionists of the day that has led Zildjian to be the choice of most top artists today. Details Written by: James Hills Published: 19 November 2016 Last Updated: 06 January 2019 ### 🚢Ready To Book A Vacation? Let us help you plan a cruise, all-inclusive resort, or tour for your next guys trip, family vacation, or romantic getaway. Click here to [**Book Your Next Vacation**](https://www.mantripping.com/vacation-planning.html). #### Which Style Of Amazon Cruise Should You Pick To Explore World's Largest River? 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