Jim; I've looked over the frame presented for auction on Ebay and my first reaction is wondering if it is in fact a Keyhole, or more likely an Italia. The owner is honest and stating he's not sure. The lugwork doesn't appear similar to other Keyholes on the Hetchins.org site and others I've seen. I'm CC'ing this letter to Len Ingram of the VCC for his opinion, as he holds the Hetchins Register. Trouble is frame records after the late 60s are spotty at best, if I remember past conversations with Len.
My personal opinion is that the frame is not overly desirable, as compared to other Hetchins Keyholes (if this is one)Italias or other Hetchins, this one is a straight frames without the more desirable "Vibrant" rear stays, not ornate in lugwork etc. Take some time and look through the Hetchins site, especially at the Keyholes. The Keyholes on Hetchins.org are gorgious machines.
If you want to add a Hetchins to your collection, this one should be had for three to four hundred dollars at best, as you'll need a complete restoration and some repair as the bottom bracket cable guides look to need replacing. As stated the owner is honest about his knowledge of the frame and he has provided a pretty decent set of photos to indicate overall frame condition.
Peter Naiman
Shorewood, WI
> Greetings
>
> Would someone from the Hetchins community please
> take a look at Ebay #7161661536, and give their
> opinion as to date and where on the ladder of
> desiareability it sits.
>
> Jim McCoin
> Fremont Ca. Its my size
> .
>
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Peter Naiman 4420 North Ardmore Avenue Shorewood, WI 53211
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