[CR]Bianchi Tour de France model - history?

(Example: Production Builders)

From: "Dave Patrick" <Patrick@aardvark-pro.com>
To: <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Date: Tue, 4 Mar 2003 09:54:19 -0500
Subject: [CR]Bianchi Tour de France model - history?

I would be most appreciative if any CR members can fill me in on any information related to the Bianchi TdF model. I understand that it came out in 1952, and featured the very first Campy Gran Sport derailleur. I have also see pictures of two models from the late 1950s. One item of note is that on the early models that I've seen, the indents/crimps in the chainstays are painted a different/darker shade of blue than the main frame color, which is Bianchi celeste green/blue. During what years did this occur? And for what years did the integral headset occur? Any info related to these questions, and other pertinent info in dating specific years, would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your consideration.

Dave Patrick
Chelsea, Michigan