VPI Customer Service

Stewart,
I have a Classic 3, this is what I recall. Mine was packed with both the ring and the center weight.
Some suggestions:
1. There are 2 boxes, one for the platter, ring, weight, etc. and the other for the Turntable.
2. If I remember correctly the serial numbers on the boxes should match. Check that they match, maybe you got a Classic 1 platter box with a Classic 3 turntable box accidentally.
3. If they match, check the packing material, does it have all the indentations for the ring and weight? Maybe it was a packing error. Did you get the Classic 3 center weight? or the Classic 1 (black) screw down clamp? with rubber spindle washer?

The platter bearing clearance on the Classic 3 is 0.0005". I also had the Classic 1, but I don't know the specifications for the bearing clearance on the Classic 1. I believe the Classic 3 has a tighter clearance and I had the impression the bearing and platter were a matched set, hence the serial number on the boxes. For example when you re-lube your classic 3, if you add too much lube, the clearances are so tight the platter will float on the lube, instead of the bearing, because the lube doesn't have room to squeeze out from the sides. You might want to ask that question to ensure you are getting the spec value clearance for the Classic 3. As far as the platter ring, there should definitely be a cutout in the packaging material for that ring if you received the Classic 3 packing material.
BTW, I am very happy with my decision to upgrade from the Classic 1 to the Classic 3.

Great news, now you can begin to really enjoy the Classic 3.