Anyone may build a frame with fancy lugs and curly stays. The patent on the curly stays expired some time ago. However, the Hetchins name, logos, badges and transfers are protected by copyright. Putting any of them on a frame not built by Hetchins is a violation of law: "pasing off" counterfeit goods for genuine ones, just like passing off some other watch for a Rolex or some other purse for a Gucci.
The original company Harry Hetchin founded has been in continuous production since 1934; it is now called Hetchins Lightweights. It is managed by David Miller. For new production:
Click here for a definition, what constitutes a genuine Hetchins.
Click here for a detailed autopsy of an attempted fraud involving fake Hetchins for sale.
Due diligence is advised for any high-budget purchase; Hetchins is no exception. Mercians are also known to have been forged. It is easy to verify authenticity of a Hetchins, as we are in possession of detailed records going back to 1935, listing frame numbers and dates of sale. Plug "fake hetchins" into any search engine, and you will land on this web site; we [the editorial 'we'] are happy to assist. Be suspicious of any purported Hetchins which has no frame numbers.
If in doubt about the authenticity of a Hetchins frame, contact the Editor:
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