re: [CR]Reproducing a head badge

(Example: Framebuilding:Brazing Technique)

Date: Thu, 06 Nov 2008 20:32:55 -0500
From: "Harvey Sachs" <hmsachs@verizon.net>
Subject: re: [CR]Reproducing a head badge
To: Classic Rendezvous <classicrendezvous@bikelist.org>


My first note (below) seems to have been ambiguous, so let me try to explain what I'm trying to do:

I bought an Andy Hamel (Long Island, late 40s-50s) from Eddie Albert. It has no head badge. the bike is repainted now, pretty much as we think it might have been when new. This is good, but it lacks a head badge. Eddie has offered to loan me one to make a replica. Once before, I got as far as pulling a silicon replica (of a Davis Sewing Machines of Dayton), and making a cast of that in plaster of paris. But I didn't finish the project.

So, the goal is to get a proper Andy Hamel head badge, or a proper replica made. Let's assume I can pull a mold and even make a cast. surely there is some hobby that relates to this, and would provide guidance on how to procure the materials, beat out the badge, etc. Any one have hints? Sounds like sort of a fun winter project.

thanks harvey sachs mcLean va 22101 (This is not the last Hamel in captivity or the wild, but there can't be very many. It's not like finding any-old Paramount badge, or even the proper Hetchins head badge, unfortunately. Heck, maybe I'll just go wise-guy and install my favorite "Real Bicycles/Philadelphia" head badge. :-(

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ I did a quick peek at the archives, but didn't get where I wanted to. Anyone have experience with reproducing a head badge, and a recipe for success? The bike is question is my Andy Hamel, and Eddie Albert has offered to loan a badge to make one or more repros. Or, anyone have a spare Andy Hamel headbadge? :-)

thanks
harvey sachs
mcLean va usa