In response to:"I wonder, then, if the builder doesn't care about his old bikes, why should a second- or third-hand owner? If I had a '76 Limited that needed a repaint, I would have it painted in colors I like..."
I contacted Mr. Eisentraut regarding original decals and paint scheme. I got a short response saying "contact Cycle Art for decals, Brian loves them"... that's it.
I guess I can understand how a person, who may consider themselves an artist, does not like to look back on their previous work. It is not unheard of in the art world, or the bike world. But even those who do not practice the craft anymore, still take some pride and get some satisfaction that their frames are still being ridden. This was evident when I contacted Dave Moulton after I purchased one of his framesets. He was very happy to hear from a "new" owner, and helped me with my questions.
I have to say I was disappointed in the lack of response from Mr. Eisentraut. Maybe after so many years of building, it just doesn't matter any more. My enthusiasm may be too high. I am so excited to aquire an Eisentaut. Granted, it is just a "Limited", and not an "A" frame, but I am still just as excited. As a new collector, I have to start small, but I am going after the bikes I coveted as a kid and teenager. I am also one of those guys that likes to have a fully restored bike(unless there is some over-riding historical significance). To me, the fun is in tracking down NOS components, and having a bike that looks like it was bought yesterday.
My collection is small, but growing: 1985 full Campy Record Alan, 1990 Dave Moulton Fuso, 1971 Falcon, 1991 Batavus professional(ridden by Leontienne van Moorsel in the 1991 World Championships), and my new Eisentraut. These are humble begginings but hopefully I will come across more of what I have lusted for in the past.
I also build my own framesets and love to buid "retro". I am currently finishing a frameset made out of Tange aero tubing. It will be equipped with NOS Shimano 600AX components. I know this is not "kosher" to many of you, but it provides a tremendous amount of satisfaction to me. To bring the old back to life is very rewarding!
I am going to talk with Brian and see what he envisions for my 'Traut...
Well,thanks for listening to my rant; hopefully I made some sense, and didn't just take up a piece cyberspace.
Chuck Schlesinger
San Diego, CA