Bearing edges aside, get a birch kit if you can. A lot of the kits in the 60's - mid 70's were in fact birch, not maple. I personally have always favored their sound over maple.
Single ply heads are a must as well. Preferably coated. REMO Ambassadors, EVANS G1s, etc.
Dampening is an important key to retro sounds. Moongel pads work wonders! Don't be afraid to get creative. an old bi-fold leather wallet (emptied) and lightly taped to a snare head can take you back to classic rock backbeat heaven!
Brass snare drums are the order for the day. You can't go wrong with Ludwig, but a lot of other companies make amazing brass shelled snares as well. Search around, try em out if you can. The drum guy at my local music shop lets me borrow snares for sessions/gigs when need be. Ask around.
Best wishes!
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