From: George Albaugh <albaughg(AT)comcast.net>
"I've just purchased what appears to be a 1975 Raleigh International frameset (serial # WB5007586) (see ebay item # 260194728204). My first question is: what years did Raleigh use a light metallic green colored paint on the International? I have a Raleigh catalog from 1975 and the only color mentioned for this model is "copper". This is also the only color listed for 1976 Internationals. The 1972 and '73 catalogs on the Retro Raleighs site mention "chartreuse" and "champagne", but by 1974 is appears that chartreuse (which I presume is the name of the light metallic green color of my frameset) was discontinued (color choices for that year appear to be champagne and copper). Earlier, Raleigh offered this model in either "coffee" or "bronze green". Bronze green, as seen in the 1970 catalog, appears much darker than the color of my frame. Finally, I don't believe that my frameset has been repainted.
My second question is in reference to the headset. I assume a Campagnolo headset would be correct, but which one, what height, etc. should I shop for? I believe the steerer tube is 1 inch with british threads."
hi George,
regarding the frame color, I would stop to remind you of a key phrase found in most (all?) of Raleigh's catalogs: "Specifications subject to change without notice"
If the paint is a "flamboyant" job (i.e. translucent top coat over a gold base layer), then it is very likely original. I haven't heard of anyone bothering to duplicate that sort of paint job when doing a respray.
It sounds like you do have the chartreuse... sort of an olive or split pea color? The same as was offered for the Super Tourer model, right? (see the '74 catalog, I believe)
Regarding headsets: The standard Campy Record ought to do it. For
instance, this is what my '74 International has:
http://i10.tinypic.com/
Welcome to the wonderful and mysterious world of Raleigh! :-)
Steve Kurt Peoria, IL (where I have three on-topic Raleighs gracing my living space)