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