Jacques Mercet Course, 1968, Switzerland
History & Specifications
One of Jacques Mercet’s works from the early period of his creation. The frame with the number 1268 was built in 1968. Already on this frame you can see the extraordinary formal aesthetics of his frame building by the reworked contours of the lugs and the terminations of chain and seat stays. A special feature is also the shift cable routing of the change by means of a roller on the down tube. This design is otherwise known from the Milan frame builder Freschi.
The racing bike is largely left in found condition and was carefully cleaned. The joy of riding was greater than the urgency of photographic documentation, which is easily recognizable by scattered dirt.
A coherent contemporary testimony of a further development of the bike by the owner(s). In 1972, a new “Drillium” rear derailleur Campagnolo Nuovo Record was obviously added. From 1973 the latest calipers and brake levers from the top group Shimano Dura Ace. Around 1976 came a set of the latest generation wheel hubs from lightweight parts manufacturer FT Bologna in addition, paired with a set of lightweight rims “Record du Monde” from Super Champion.
Quirky the choice of a Campagnolo Pista headset that went through all his work. Again, 4-way crossed spokes, also a feature of Mercet’s preferences.
Renewed worn parts such as the brake lever rubbers with original Shimano spare parts, the handlebar tape, matching dark blue-purple pedal straps from Christophe and the collés.
The bike is very well maintained, the paint and decals and airbrushed lettering are in very good condition. The chromed lugs show signs of aging. Mechanically the Mercet is in very good condition and it rides excellent.
Frame size seat tube 57 cm center-top, top tube length 57 cm center-center, weight 9.55 kg