1954 Bob Jackson "Messina" #1288 - Traded to Tom Adams

Bob Jackson #1288 front view

Hi,

I recently acquired Bob Jackson frame #1288. Can you tell me when it was made?

David

Bob Jackson Cycles wrote:

I think something may be wrong here. I have had a quick look and for that number to be right the frame would have been built in the late 40's or very early 50's, Making it about 55 years old. Does that sound correct???

Donald

Hi Donald,

Off hand I would not guess the frame is that old, but I am not an expert. Having bought it used on eBay, I have no idea of its history. Did you receive the photos I sent with the last email? Perhaps you can tell from the photos what era the frame is from. It has Campagnolo drop outs and a sloping fork crown. I don't know what type of lugs, but perhaps you can identify them. There are no braze-ons except for the cable stop on the right side chain stay. If you have the original frame card, does any of this match up?

The frame is clearly #1288. there is no mistaking it. That said, an entirely different area of the BB has the number 12 punched into it, if that helps at all.

More info:
Seat tube center to center: 63.5cm
Top tube c/c: 57cm

Please look at the photos.

David

Bob Jackson Cycles wrote:

Well it looks right,But it must have had a respray and some other work at some point. The original job would have had JRJ decals on.

We have just looked through the old master sheets and even though we cannot find the card the master sheet says it was built in 1954.

Donald

Hi Donald,

So when you say it "looks right" does that mean the frame's features (Campy drop outs, sloped fork crown, the type of lugs, etc.) are consistent with a 1954 Jackson?

If it helps at all, as mentioned in a previous email, on another area of the bottom bracket the number "12" is punched. (See attached photo) Does that mean anything?

David

Bob Jackson Cycles wrote:

Yes that's just what we mean, in fact the painter who has been here for 45 years says he remembers the model as a Messina.

The 12 confirms what I said as this is a renovation number. So it has been resprayed and perhaps even frame alterations.

Donald