I had a great time at Larz. It was a long day, driving up from Long Island, NY, but well worth it. There was a huge turnout and the weather was glorious, although, a bit warm (Ouch... wow that seat post was hot!). The swap was exciting, and I brought home some treasures as well as renewed enthusiasm. I still lose a little sleep over "the one that got away", but I'll survive.
My best score was a Crescent frame, from Sweden, 531, nervex, orange, my optimal size, 61cm, in pretty decent shape. I was very happy to spy it after passing it up at Larz two years ago, when I picked up my ALAN Carbon from the same guy (Alan Schaeffer, I think). I am mulling over how to build it up. My first thought is conservative, Campagnolo Nuovo Record. Second is early Dura-Ace.
"The one that got away" was frustrating. The perfect bike for me. There was a swap space with what appeared to be a lone ATALA 101, Record Professional in great original condition. Fluorescent orange with white panels, Campagnolo Nouvo Record with Universal 61 centerpulls with perfect hoods and adjusters. 24" frame. It was labeled a '70 but it had a 71 patent derailleur and the serial number started with 72, so I figure it to be a 72. I have been riding a too small 23" blue one since I was 15. I wanted that bike and could not locate the seller. The swap space was just outside the ropes of the concours. While I was wandering though the awesome collection of bikes I witnessed the seller arriving, a buyer, and a deal go down. $325. Oh well.
It did see Peter Weigle and he had some beautiful fresh restorations on hand. I did show him my newly acquired Raymond Valance French touring bike, complete with Lefol fenders, racks, bags, lights, etc. That bike, and it's relatives, will be the subject of a future post, for sure.
I was hoping to show the Raymond Valances at next years concours. I have enjoyed Peter Naiman's events over the last few years. It is great to have these sort of things on the east coast too.
Bye for now,
Paul Lee
Farmingdale, NY