Original frame finish, how important is it...

[Maca]

Re: Re:

I quite accept retaining original colour schemes where it's warranted an relevant. For example, I once had a Raleigh 531 Competition in Panasonic colours, if I was to refurbish something like that I would retain the original colour scheme.

As for my Langdale, as referred to in earlier posts, it was a nice 653 frame but nothing out of the ordinary as steel frames from that time go. Except to me, it was! Because it was mine, from new, I raced it on the road and TTs, trained on it, club runs, chaingangs etc. As the years went by it dropped down the pecking order until it became my winter bike for a few years and suffered as a result. Fitted with anything that had also been taken from newer bikes. Eventually the chrome began to get pitted, the chips and marks on the paintwork became more shabby. Yep! I've chucked a bit of money at it and if the frame rots, cracks or is otherwise done for, I've still got the components for another.
I'm comforted somewhat by the above comments, accepted it's now't special, except to me, and it's now back at the top of the pecking order along with some good memories.
Thanks folks.

Oh don't get me wrong I was disagreeing with some of the comments not on your paint job. I think your new paint job looks spot on and is (imho) a lot nicer than it was.

 

[Jamiedyer]

I agree Maca, it certainly stands out and looks a lot more special with this paint job. Clean and crisp, if that's a descriptive term.

I do know what you mean in your post as well Maca. I do think its up to the individual who rides it and generally has to live with it every day.
I have my King of Mercia Mercian and I am trying to save the cash to have it repainted, its probably not too bad but its chipped a fair bit and its British racing green with a white undercoat so it stands out. A lot of people would build and ride as is but I pulled it back apart and it will wait until I can paint it to look nice and new looking. Metalic verdy green with white band on seat tube and a white headtube, white lug lining. Most likely just contradicted my earlier post but I do think it depends on the machine, its history and the owners preference. The Mercian is easy because its not old really in the scheme of things and it can also go back to Mercian for a paint job.
Just some thoughts to add.

Jamie

 

[Brian1946]

Re:

Sorry Maca, my comments weren't intended as a specific response to your post, more a general reply. I respect, value and accept all of the views/opinions, that's why I posted, to see what others think and thanks to all who responded.