I have a GC III that I bought new about 20 years ago. I have torn it down and set it up at least four times in two states (Ohio and Maryland), recovered it at least that many times and at one point it sat torn down on a pallet outdoors in Ohio over two winters with only 1/4" plywood and tarps on it.
When I finally could bring it in the house I had to rebuild one side (with beam truss supports) and refinish with stain and varnish. I have spray painted the original metallic finishes and had to use bondo to repair the slate where it was slightly damaged.
For a GC III it has been through hell. It looks and plays great, if great is measured by comments that nearly everyone makes who sees and plays on it. It has a few scratches and dents here and there and it fits in my poolroom / bar that is similar to a pool hall environment in terms of lighting, bar etc.
So it is like an old favorite pair of shoes. A little worn, kinda like me, but still in excellent shape. I hope that my grandsons will play on it for many years to come. Treated right it becomes part of the family.
Over the years it has gotten tighter pockets, better cloth and a fine room to call home. The last time I measured it, it was square to within about 1/4" and the rails are better than some of my friends tables who do not have a Gold Crown.
A good Gold Crown not only has class, it has character. Keep it forever, like a good spouse, you only need one. Hell, I even have a Brunswick ball cap because it is such fine, durable equipment that has definitely become a family member in our house.
Over time I have built a dining room table cover, bench seats for up to 12 at Thanksgiving, added a ping pong set and of course it has a leather table cover for when the kids are over or we go away for a week or so. In my opinion our house just would not be the same without that table. Give it some serious thought before you get rid of it.
