The frame and fork were built at the PDG (Paramount Design Group) in Waterford, WI in April of 1983 for Edward R. Schwinn (Richard's brother). It was part of the "super custom" program, anything you wanted for $3,000.00. It is built with Columbus SLX tubing as far as I know. The seat tube measures 56CM CTC. Larger frames were built with a combination of SL/SP tubing. However, I am sure you could specify whatever you wanted at that price point!
It has many features you do not normally see on Paramounts. Such as the double drop out eyelets, braze-ons for three water bottles, braze-ons for low rider racks on the fork blades, chromed seat lug with an extended point at the seat post (a detail I personally really like). The Henry James fork crown is a super nice touch, of course, chromed! There is also a larger hole on the chain stay bridge that I assume would be for mounting a generator perhaps. Cinelli BB shell with cable guides brazed on to the under side. One thing I find curious about it is the choice of caliper brakes over the tried and true cantilever type. They allowed for larger tires and fender clearance, which this bike would need given its obvious intended touring use. The decals are a rarely seen font and design. Maybe exclusive to the custom program? The pin striping is flawless and the paint color is a metallic champagne color that pictures do not do justice to. In the sun it sparkles like crazy, way nicer than the Masi champagne color ( in my opinion). Richard told me he is pretty sure this bike was never built or ridden. It is a truly unique example, I have never seen another one like it. This is another bike that I hope we will someday completely build up! Enjoy!
