I was trolling CL a few days ago and came across an ad in a southern state for a Witcomb USA touring bike. I called the seller and he knew very little about bikes but bought "them" from a widow up the street. Witcombs are pretty rare, only made for a few years in CT and then once the bike boom petered out, the owner exited the business. I search for for high end early steel lugged bikes. When I asked about the other bikes, he said there is a Fat Chance and a J.P. Weigle. Needless to say, I wanted all these bikes.

The Fat Chance is I think Wicked looking at the picture owner provided. The serial # is 15799W. Can one you guys who follows this brand provide me with a production date? It has a huge Salsa stem. The bike appears to be black. I am buying the JP Weigle sight unseen.

It is somewhat ironic that Chris Chance was one the framemakers at Witcomb USA. He left CT when the place folded and began his own firm and we all know the rest of the story. Also at Witcomb were Richard Sachs and Peter Weigle, both still making frames today.

I will have pictures in a few weeks after getting the bikes. Jeff

All the bikes you mentioned are holy grails, ask your questions on the vintage site here, members will be eager to respond.