OK, here's a new request for the list. Some of you know that I recently purchased a very nice, original Bob Jackson. I spoke and wrote to Bpb Jackson Cycles in England and for 5lbs (a little over $7) they pulled their files on the frame number I provided. Among the details of the bike (provided at the end for anyone that cares) was the name, address and some info on the original owner. I'd very much like to try and locate him and figured I'd try the list first - maybe someone knows/knew him? Any info, leads, etc. greatly appreciated. Interestingly, the original owner ordered the bike directly from BJCycles and traveled to England and picked it up in person - it was not a "catalog" bike as was so popular in the mid 70's.
Orginal owner:
William B. Stearns 48 W. 73rd St (when ordered in early 4/76) then, 167 West 73rd St (ater in April 1976) NY, NY phone 874-5904
Bike specs (exactly as on build card): Frame No: 11891 1976 Bob Jackson completed June 4, 1976 Model: Nouvo Olympus Lugs: Fancy Size: 22 1/2 Short TT 21 1/2? Allen key seat Forks: Oval R16 Wheelbase: (blank on form, 38.5 by my measurement) Bkt. Height: 10 3/4 Dropouts: Camp F+R 5/8 ???? over (I can't make out the letters with my ????) Head Angle: 73 Seat Angle: 73 Braze on: RH + LH lever bosses* TA Bottle fitt D/1* Eye on chainstay Finish: Blue AnQuetil Flam Silver head + S/T panel 6" Lugs lined white White Transfers. Head Fitt: Campy Record* Bkt. Fitt: Campy Record* Special Remarks: Campy record Brakes, cranks.
In a separate letter to a Mr. Mendall of BJC, Mr Stearns writes all his vital measurements and:
"I will leave it to your judgement as to correct length and height of frame. Wheels are to be Campagnolo Nuovo Record 36 with tied D/B spokes on Mavic Record Du Monde De L'Heure rims, tires to be Clement Seta. The bottom bracket and headset are already mentioned in the earlier order. The handlebar and stem, chainrings, chain and etc. I will either bring with me or I will purchase at the store when I get the frame. I hope there is still enough time left to make the frame before I arrive in England Saturday June 5th."
Finally, I assume the "*" means that it was fitted at the shop. I'm curious if anyone knows what the D/1 means relative to the braze on bottle fittings and what the ???? would have been.
Thanks for any and all help,
Eric Elman
Somers, CT