Re: [CR]Confente #29

(Example: Production Builders:Frejus)

Date: Fri, 21 Sep 2007 17:28:35 -0700
From: "galen pewtherer" <dolface@gmail.com>
To: "Jeff Slotkin" <jeffslotkin@comcast.net>
Subject: Re: [CR]Confente #29
In-Reply-To: <CEFE3681-C2F6-4084-9E24-46D5EE90EFF8@comcast.net>
References: <DAECJCGMAPNDNDBOEMIKAENKGCAA.shop@cyclart.com> <46F455A5.4020207@gate.net>
cc: C R List <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>

OK, I'll bite. I do agree that the overall treatment of the lugs is excellent, but I argue that part of what makes it special is the rarity. I don't think the details are any better (and may be inferior) to a classic-era 3Rensho or Nagasawa, or current work by Bayliss or Kirk (I know I'm giving short-shrift to a TON of other builders; please forgive me).

Here are a couple of examples (photos are mine, apologies for the poor quality): Nagasawa: http://www.flickr.com/photos/dolface/212810029/in/set-72157594233420341/ Kirk (with paint by Joe Bell):http://www.flickr.com/photos/dolface/413220947/in/set-72157594574583751/

galen pewtherer san francisco, ca, usa

On 9/21/07, Jeff Slotkin <jeffslotkin@comcast.net> wrote:
> Out from the left with a lurker:
>
> If you can't see something special about (for instance) that seat
> lug, then your looking needs practice. Maybe "better," no need for
> "ultimate," but unique and artistic, and wow. To be prosaic, watch
> that lug's thickness taper, and its profile defy algebra. Other
> details look at home.
>
> And, sure, it is always good coin to die young, but honestly, not
> many plan it.
>
> That frame makes me wish I was a millionaire, and it IS my size.
>
> Jeff Slotkin
> Charleston, SC
> On Sep 21, 2007, at 7:37 PM, Louis Schulman wrote:
>
> > Hi all,
> >
> > OK, I have spent some time studying these photos. A couple of years
> > ago, I spent a good deal of time examining the Confente at le
> > Cirque du Cyclisme.
> >
> > These are certainly finely made bicycles. But I don't see that they
> > are more finely made than several other bikes made at the same
> > time, and maybe not as good as a few others.
> >
> > The workmanship is very high...for an Italian bicycle (or an
> > Italian bike made in America). I don't think it equals some of the
> > work of relatively unknown English builders.
> >
> > I think the workmanship on my '68 Holdsworth Professional, done by
> > the unheralded Reg Collard, is of a higher standard. It is
> > virtually flawless. And I think the stamped Prugnat long point lugs
> > look better.
> >
> > I think the lugwork on my '73 Ron Cooper is better. It IS flawless.
> > The seat stay treatment is truly remarkable.
> >
> > So, what is it about Confente? The bike, or really the drama of his
> > story? Just a continuation of this Masi infatuation?
> >
> > Louis Schulman
> > Hot Tampa Florida
> >
> > CyclArt Shop wrote:
> >> After over 20 years in storage, Confente #29 has reappeared.
> >> Originally
> >> owned by Pete Siracusa, it is a Pro-Strada 56cm in white and
> >> yellow, and
> >> outfitted with Nuovo Record. It is in good original condition, so
> >> it is only
> >> receiving a minor cosmetic and mechanical overhaul. We will have it
> >> assembled in time to show at Velo Rendezvous on Sunday.
> >> Frame photos here:
> >> http://www.cyclart.com/photos/Confente_29/BB.jpg
> >> http://www.cyclart.com/photos/Confente_29/HT.jpg
> >> http://www.cyclart.com/photos/Confente_29/OA_L.jpg
> >> http://www.cyclart.com/photos/Confente_29/OA_R.jpg
> >> http://www.cyclart.com/photos/Confente_29/ST.jpg
> >> Greg Reiche
> >> CyclArt
> >> Vista, CA USA
> >> --
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>
> _______________________________________________
>

--
-galen