VPI Customer Service

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.

mystery solved. dealer ordered c1 at same time and ups split the shipments and delivered the platter box for c1 with the table box for c3 and the other two arrived next day after mine was shipped out. he's sending me my ring
in the platter/ring box and i'm sending empty non ring box back empty.

according to an email from VPI today, the platters/tolerances etc are identical across the classic line, there is absolutely no difference from c1 to c3 and
they are not matched pairs.....

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