[CR]MKM Colour Schemes

(Example: Events:Cirque du Cyclisme)

From: "Norris Lockley" <norris@norrislockley.wanadoo.co.uk>
To: <Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>
Date: Tue, 27 Sep 2005 14:33:46 +0100
Subject: [CR]MKM Colour Schemes

Well, Nigel, there will be nothing in this reply to restrict your artistic tendancies..

Almost all of MKM's frames were produced against orders from individuals. Not until just before the company folded were many stock frames built. Customers had the freedom to have the coilour of their choosing

MKM tended to favour metallic of "polychromatic" finishes, with a distinct leaning towards a light metallic champagne colour as their favourite. I remember that new models such as their "Ultimate" frame was introduced at the Hoarogate Show, resplendent in that paintwork. It showed off the large MKM transfers to perfection.

Other than that I recall that one of their paint-sprayers - it might have been ace time-trialler, Ian White, had a strong liking for a sharp red and a deep mid blue. Both of these finished had a real depth to them. Apparently this depth was achieved by undercoating the frame in "Obliterating white". On top of this base coat was applied a colour coat of flambouyant Ferrari red, or this deep ocean blue - I think it was called Gentian Blue. On top of this and over the transfers went a coat of clear lacquer. I have various colour samples from companies such as Bob Jackson and C&G who tend just to call this particular shade "Flam blue" or "Aircraft blue"

Of course one of the problems that occurred with any finish over obliterating white was the chipping that often took place - the white contrasting strongly with the finish coat.

Go for the champagne, Nigel.

Norris Lockley..Settle, Uk