No doubt about it -- the right lugs and other details. Definitely an earlier model -- one of the Waterford-built frames (if you look very closely in one of the pictures where you can see the left chain-stay, you can just barely make out the words "Waterford Wisconsin"). Sticker on seat-tube says Reynolds 753 which is correct for an earlier Riv frame.
I'm inclined to think it is original paint, too, but obviously in terrible condition. All that bubbling is rust under the paint which happens when small scratches and chips in the paint are left untreated -- yes it can happen from a poor paint job with improper pre-paint-preparation -- but this looks like a simple case of serious neglect to me. The rusty and bubbled patches don't look odd to me -- they are in typical places where scratches, chips or other types of wear will happen -- such as the right chainstay near the bottom bracket, and all around the lower seat-tube where an ill-fitting clamp-on front derailluer was attached.
Is it a worthwhile project? I'd want to know how deep some of that rust goes -- the rust around the seat-tube looks pretty deep. Is there any metal left under all that rust?
Kyle Brooks Akron, OH
> [Original Message]
> From: Bryan @ Renaissance Bicycles <bryan@renaissancebicycles.com>
> To: CR List <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
> Date: 8/19/2008 9:37:46 AM
> Subject: [CR]Vintage Rivendell on eBay
>
> Greetings Everyone,
>
> Can anyone attest to the authenticity of this Rivendell?
> eBay Item #: 220270774720
>
> My initial reaction: An older repaint that didn't have proper preparation,
> thus the somewhat odd rust patches and paint bubbles. But maybe I am off
> the mark.
>
> However, it might still be worthwhile if it is indeed a Rivendell.
>
> Thanks for you input,
>
> Bryan Luce
> Flat Rock, NC
> USA
>
> --
> Renaissance Bicycles LLC
> http://www.renaissancebicycles.com
> (828) 330-4169
> Flat Rock, NC