.........I read with interest the statement from Clive regarding that Omega
Cycles are advertising non-sanctioned newly built Hetchins.
I'm not too sure of the legal technicalities but it is my
understanding that Mark Joynt the proprietor and framebuilder of Omega Cycles
in Swanley Kent is the new legal owner of the Hetchins name (as well as
Gillott and others etc.) having the foresight awhile ago to purchase the name
as copyright on these names had never been applied for. This information
relating to Hetchins was conveyed to me about a fortnight ago by a local,
well established bike shop owner (Paul Mepham at Harry Perry's) and I have no
reason to doubt the validity of the info. or his integrity.
As to the question of are these "real or fake" frames........ they
are neither, just modern built versions in the style of the original, as Dave
Millar has successfully demonstrated with his excellent frames. Where I'm
unsure on this subject is Mark Joynt's interpretation of his ownership of the
name, I will phone him tomorrow and get back with an update. I would leave
the interpretation of whether it's a real Hetchin's or not to the prospective
purchaser providing they are fully equipped with correct information
regarding the original marque and the current use of its name...........as to
those unscrupulous dealers who attempt to pass off a modern frame as "the
gen-u-wine article" then that's another matter entirely.
Just a thought on the various names that "Marque Joynt" has acquired,
I wonder if he has applied to copyright his own name yet!
regards
Griff King-Spooner (copyright applied for)