A frame has turned up with box-standard lugs, curly stays, and an invalid frame number: H123405. It changed hands at ebay in 2024. Forensic analysis below.
1. The frame number is not a valid Hetchins number. H12xxx-series numbers started in 1973; there are no known valid frames numbers of the format H12xxxx.
2. The treatment of the seat cluster and binder bolt is not up to standard for a Hetchins.
3. The cable-guide under the seat lug is not up to standard for a Hetchins.
4. The brake bridge is not up to standard for a Hetchins.
5. The fork crown is suspicious for a Hetchins.
Below are photos with the anomalous bits marked in red, as well as photos of genuine Hetchins of similar vintage for comparison.
Mouse-over for captions.
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