Charles Andrews wrote:
>
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> This got me thinking about a restoration I saw awhile
> back..a very good job too. Early 60s top-line Frejus, with
> new chrome, paint, pinstripes, the works. It must have set
> the owner back at least $1500 for the job. Everything was
> correct. I'm sure he loved it.
Perfect example Charles. I've been contacted through my Velo-Retro web site many times over the past years about Frejus TdF bikes and getting them restored. Usually the guy is the original owner, bought the bike when he was in college. Obviously a very strong sentimental attachment.
I tell him that he is going to be "married" to the bike after he spends a lot on a full restoration (meaning no one else is going to think the bike is worth what he has invested in it). But his goal is to make _his_ bike like new again; the nuances of original condition vs. restored and the difference between the original chrome finish (not so wonderful) and new chrome (wonderful) is all lost on him. These guys are not collectors... they love their one and only bike!
It's all good... but it's just not my (or your) thing!
Chuck Schmidt South Pasadena, Southern California
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