In light of Brian's assessment, it would seem to me that the bike is certainly a candidate for a restoration. And it seems to me that this Masi should be restored, given it's early production date and the interest that is being generated on this list. And let's say it's sent to Brian and he works his magic on the frame, do you think that most would be able to tell that tube replacement has occurred? Personally, I think not, given the level of Brian's craftsmanship.
On one hand, it's nothing to undertake a vintage/classic car restoration and start replacing metal if needed. This is quite common and quite often needed, given the wear & tear that vehicles go thru. And I think the same could/should be expected of a vintage bike frame. In this case, the end result would be a restored classic Masi, put back as close to it's original "glory" as possible, which beats having the frame rot away in the top of someone's garage or in a basement. Sure, maybe the end result isn't as desireable as an all-original finish Masi, in all original trim, but it would/could be a very nice bike. It just depends on how discriminating you want to be.
That said, keep in mind the total restoration costs, as these can pile up quickly and get out of hand, especially when you're talking chrome work for the fork crown etc. Tube replacement, decals, paint, new chrome.... it all adds up and must be taken into account. How much to restore this frame? $1000? $1200? $1500? More? Then you need "period correct" parts? Do you want all NOS parts, to match the nice restoration? Not to mention the original purchase price of the frame, whatever that might be. So what do you end up with? A $3000 Masi GC? $3500? More? What do the CR Masi-philes say about this?
Dave Patrick Chelsea, Michigan
-----Original Message----- From: classicrendezvous-bounces@bikelist.org [mailto:classicrendezvous-bounces@bikelist.org]On Behalf Of richardsachs@juno.com Sent: Tuesday, September 07, 2004 9:11 AM To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org Subject: [CR]NOW: Value WAS: Original run Carlsbad Masi
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