Richie,
I'm sure no one wants or prefers a frame with slight damage or a tube replacement over a frame that is original, minus the paint as in this case. But the answer to that requires each case to be determined individually, based on many factors. Of course what a frame might be worth to Richie or I as a builder/repairer is one thing and what it's worth to the man on the street might be different. I have gotten bikes in trades or purchases for my "collection" not knowing at the time I was getting a frame that had, for example, a seat tube replacement; as in my '74 Colnago. When I noticed it during the repaint, I was bummed at first, but now I'm used to it and the bike rides OK. I wish the repairperson had been more careful, even if I had noticed it, a neat job as opposed to the semi-sloppy job would have made me feel better.
In the case of frames that have had tubes replaced, my feeling is that the repairperson should make it look like it never happened, if at all possible. I just finished a Masi Special that got a new down tube and the top tip of the bottom head lug, along with the other paint and chrome. It is undetectable with the paint on. With paint off one might notice the lug tip spliced on. Personally, if i get to do the repait myself, I feel OK about having repaired frames; but obviously the value is dimished. But so far the repaired frames I do have feel and ride fine. If the tube does not get replaced, you may notice some evidence of being punched, especiall with light metallic colors. But often it's better not to yank a tube and just live with a little ripple. Sometimes older frames are not 100% perfect but are perfectly ridable and safe.
The steerer being cut off is the real bummer on this frame. That really pisses me off. Doing a steerer replacement is a pain in the behind. Some are more difficult than others. I have a friend who can bore out some crowns and then it is much better, if it must be done. I have passed on some frames just for that problem alone.
Each case is individual. But I think we all prefer unperverted original frames.
Brian Baylis
La Mesa, CA
on the coat tails of the recent thread, i am interested to hear what folks think about this. if this frame or one as rare as this is re-tubed owing to an accident, how is the value/ mojo/provenance affected? the same question goes for the fork if a new steerer is installed.
if you're a masi-phile or just a CR sycophant, where are your bounderies on this issue?
e-RICHIE
chester, ct