snipped: "FWIW, I wasn't dealing with the stamped vs investment debate..."
dale-issimo
i referenced the stamped lugs because you mentioned the cast
dropouts and noted, "...More like the ultimate plug and play."
i once wanted to agree with you and your example (below) but
after many trips and visits i can only state that i saw none
of the personalization you're citing. graphics and panto-
graphics aside, it was production work, pure and simple.
as far as the strawberry example, i think you're right;
folks over here, miles and generations removed from the
industry in italy, were insatiable in their quest to draw
inspiration and find styles to copy.
e-RICHIE
chester, ct
In a message dated 9/9/2004 10:58:14 AM Eastern Daylight Time, richardsachs@juno.com writes:
<< i think those builders in that era used what was available to them and what they viewed as "best" quality. they did not choose these parts so they could lovingly impart the soul of the maker into them; they built frames. >>
FWIW, I wasn't dealing with the stamped vs investment debate..
Using the BEST was an assumed as they were striving for acceptance, personal fame and fortune so had to compete and step up the that level..
I DO think that the artisan builders of days gone by were VERY attuned to frame building styles and filed up form and it was a competition amongst builders seeking individuality and points in a system of comparatives. For instance, (imagined conversations) Paletti and the boys one-upping the gang "Oh, look, Masi has cut the tips of that and added a tab on there..." They run back and add a different tang and think up another cutout shape. In the USA, "Wow look how thin the guy at Strawberry tapered his lugs. That looks cool, I will try it but in my way"
Nothing much to do with customers, most couldn't see the differences, but all to do with ego and pride in craft.
My 2 scents, Dale
Dale Brown
Greensboro, North Carolina