A Hetchins Magnum Opus De Luxe: Blending Vintage Charm with Contemporary Performance

While visually reminiscent of its 1950s predecessors, this particular Hetchins machine was actually crafted in 1997, marking a new era for the brand after its revival by owner David Miller. Chris, the current owner, discovered the opportunity to acquire one of these new frames through a magazine article in 1996. A quick phone call and a deposit secured his order, and about a year later, the frame arrived. Chris meticulously assembled it with a Campagnolo Record 9-speed groupset, blending classic design with contemporary engineering.

The bicycle's quality was quickly recognized when a tech editor from Cycling Plus, Paul Vincent, borrowed it for a comparative review against a 1954 Hetchins Magnum Opus. Despite Chris not having ridden his new bike yet, he graciously agreed. The subsequent article, published in October 1998, lauded Chris's 1997 Hetchins with a perfect 5/5 score, outshining the 1954 model which received a 3/5. This test underscored the successful fusion of traditional design and modern performance.

The Hetchins brand itself has a storied past, initiated by Hymen 'Harry' Hetchins in Tottenham, North London, in 1922. Initially selling household goods, Harry soon ventured into bicycles, eventually partnering with frame builder Jack Denny in the early 1930s. Their innovative curved stay design was patented in 1934, leading Hetchins to focus solely on their own 'Hetchins Lightweight Cycle Specialists' brand. By the late 1930s, Hetchins bicycles were achieving Olympic and world championship victories, leading to significant production numbers. After Harry's passing in 1961, his son Alf continued the legacy until David Miller acquired the company in 1993, restarting production with frame builder Paul Riley. Chris's bicycle is a product of this revitalized era.

A hallmark of Hetchins frames is their ornate, often hand-cut, lug work, alongside the patented curly or vibrant seat and chain stays. When Chris decided to repaint his frame and fork, he opted for more chrome detailing. While advised against extensive chroming for the upper rear seat area due to potential metal brittleness, he chose to highlight the intricate design with gold accents, which stunningly contrast against the black paint. The area around the brake bridge received similar meticulous treatment.

Chris's approach to outfitting his Hetchins has always favored modern components for enhanced usability. He currently uses a mixed Campagnolo 10-speed Record and Chorus groupset from the mid-2000s, including a more practical compact chainset. He firmly believes in having bikes that are reliable and perform well, finding the combination of an older steel frame with modern parts ideal for his needs. While purists might debate the aesthetic blend, the practical advantages are undeniable. The wheels, hand-built by Harry Rowland with Mavic Open Pro rims and Campagnolo hubs, are a testament to Chris's preference for quality and durability, having required no adjustments since purchase.

For Chris, this Hetchins is more than just a bicycle; it's his favorite, offering exceptional hill-climbing capabilities and a superior riding experience compared to his other bikes. More profoundly, it serves as a cherished link to his father, George Law, a keen amateur racer who instilled in him a passion for cycling. This build perfectly harmonizes technical excellence with deep personal sentiment, resulting in a beautifully crafted and highly functional bicycle that honors both tradition and innovation. It stands as a powerful symbol of enduring legacy and the joy of cycling.