Classic & Vintage - Jean Brun Switzerland - Any Info?

This bike was on eBay. It looked interesting and very cool with a great looking Reynolds frame. I bought it.

The owner bought it in 1971 in Geneva Suisse. From a bike shop named Jean Brun which is the marque on the bike. Does anyone recognize the name or does the frame look familiar to you? I assume it's a French or Swiss manufacturer that the shop used as their "house" brand. Looks like good period components. Check out those lugs (Nervex?? close up of head tube shows #72 on lug) outlined in gold paint. Way cool retro steel ride. Here's the eBay link:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=7138420532&ssPageName=STRK:MEWN:IT

If anyone knows anything or can offer any info it will be appreciated.

I am a little confused on the wheel size - 25 inch??? Read the description and tell me what you think.

Also - look at that interesting Reynolds decal. Looks older than 1971???

I just love old steel and enjoy researching them. For $150 bucks I figure I can't go wrong.

I don't think those are Nervex lugs. The bike certainly looks nice, and seems to have an eclectic mix of components. I'm not really impressed with the crankset, but overall it sems to be well worth what you paid.

Cycles Jean Brun is still in business -- I was in Geneva recently, and saw the shop. Due to time contraints, and massive jet lag, I didn't go in. But its there. You might try Googling around for an email address or phone number, and give them a call. There'll likely be somewhere there who can speak enough english to help you, though french would be your best bet.

Mark,
I have a Jean Brun bike that I bought in Geneva in 1972 and which I'm still riding. The frame is very well made, with attention to details. Mine has lugs that are more sculpted, chromed, and pinstriped. The picture of yours looks older than 1971, especially looking at the Reynolds decal. My decal looks similar.

Dean

markwebb - are you reselling this bike, or is some kind of scam going on? This bike was just relisted on Ebay, but by a different seller.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=98084&item=7142490531&rd=1

No - no scam. I got the bike but it's not a good size for me. I am really particular about size - even though bike riding is my sport and it may sound odd - I have some problems with my legs and feet. I always need a compromise in size - not so small I am cramped and not so big I cannot get off and one fot down to ground easily. Each bikes characteristices are unique so I never really know if a bikes gona fit until I get it. This one is just not a good fit for me.

Mine does look kinda old - I have never seen a Reynolds decal like that. I do like the headbadge, and the lugs do look sorta sculpted. they are highlighted with little gold shadow accents around their perimeters. The derailleurs are Campy Valentino - very retro and I guess they pre-date NR and SR. Original owner bought it in 1971, but who knows - it may have been in the shop in Geneve for 10 years before that !

It does not need much - some derailleur and shifter adjustments, clean and lube, and probably rebuild and pack hs, bb, and hubs. Glue on new tubulars and away you go - but again for my specific needs I need a better fit. I collect vintage bikes but I also ride them - they don't just hang in my living room. I am a rider first and colector second.