I like this thread to much to let it just die. After reading all of the comments I am reminded again of those experts who placed over 350 pieces of art on the Helsinki museum walls only to be judged as fakes later on. Experts are human also and subject to the same frailties as I. They do possess something in their areas of expertise that I do not and that is experience. Although not perfect it is the best method of validation we have.
As I said before, this frame could be analyzed to truly determine what happened but that would take the human factor out of the equation. I have seen some frames that were restored by experts were parts were added, bondo was used and the frame was reformed. More than half on this forum would not be able to tell any of this once it has been painted and restored. They would sell it as a repaint but not list the individual items that went into the restoration. I probably own a bike or two that has been restored in ways that I will never know. Would I turn up my nose at this bike, certainly not. Would I pay as much for it as a mint original, certainly not. That is because I know at least the paint is not original and now the frame integrity is in question. I wonder how many here would have had this same discussion if this very frame were repainted then sold. So far as the auction, the owner never claimed that the bike was mint. The only direct reference to the frame itself is as follows
"This frame is in terrific shape after being stored in a garage attic for the past 25 years! "
The rest of the posting reads like some good marketing fluff to gin up
interest in the bike. Pretty much what I see on this list every day.
Experts in our hobby believe it has been punched as Brian puts it. The
owner does not strongly protest but that is difficult in the face of the
overwhelming scrutiny on this forum. What I am happy to see is the honest,
open discussion here from experts who should know. They put there name on
the line and that comes with the moniker of expert. Still I see only 2 bid
retractions and neither of them question the frame integrity. Hmmmmm!
Ray Homiski
Elizabeth, NJ