>Roy states
>
>"Swallows are my favorite Brooks, there's been many different
>methods and designs of attaching the cut-away portion. BTW, I
>stopped in at Trophy Bike in Philadelphia today and the last honey
>leather / copper rail Swallow is $199."
John responded
>
>This gets back to my question - why was the one in the auction so valuable ?
>(Over $700!)
>
>Apart from some possible shill bidding I can't see why even Kauzo would
>spend this much unless this particular Swallow has some uniqueness to it.
>
>By the way, the latest Rivendell Reader has an interesting article on Brooks
>Swallow saddles.
>
>
>
Since a new Swift is $200...why wouldn't a 40 year old NOS rare model be worth 3 times that? If you are a rabid purist/enthusiast who demands nothing but the best for your restorations then you wouldn't have a second thought. I suspect Kauzo is that kind of person...with very deep pockets of course.
I have a circa '60 NOS B15 Swallow...it's one of my few nice pieces in my stash-o-parts. Am I foolish because I don't want to sell it for $700? Cuz I don't. I earn that by working for a few days. I'm not going to find many more of these in "ye old Quaint Bike Shop" anymore.
I'm looking for a nice 21" British 531 Clubman frame to restore and build up...with that saddle of course. And I will ride it.
Warren Young
Toronto