Looking for any additional information and opinions on Wards Hawthorne Comet?

[ghostrider]

Hello all! I picked up this bike last year mostly on impulse. I thought it looked cool in the picture the seller had and it was a good price. I didn’t know much about old bikes at all at the time. Through the research I’ve primarily done here, I think it is a 1941 Comet. Can anyone confirm that? It looks to be an all original survivor. As far as I can tell, it’s only missing the headlight lens. The old, cracking tires appear to be the originals.

I’m not sure what I want to do with it. Do I leave it as is? Clean it up and fully service it? Keep it or sell it? Maybe try to do something to bring the paint back? Does it have any real value? I’m curious what it’s likely worth.

 

[Olds442]

If I were gonna rob a bank I’d use this bike. This is the longest I’ve seen a post without someone answering! Cool looking bike in nice shape.

 

[rustjunkie]

That's a great bicycle, I'd absolutely leave it just as it is.
It shows its age beautifully, nothing will be gained by cosmetic cleaning, character will be lost.
If there's anything to be done: new tires & a careful mechanical service of the bearings would make it a nice rider.

 

[ghostrider]

Can anyone confirm if this is indeed a 1941 Comet? That's the best estimation that I have based on what info I have been able to find, but I would appreciate a more informed opinion.

Also, other than eBay plastic reproductions, does anyone know of a source for a replacement headlight lens?

 

[rustjunkie]

Can anyone confirm if this is indeed a 1941 Comet? That's the best estimation that I have based on what info I have been able to find, but I would appreciate a more informed opinion.

Also, other than eBay plastic reproductions, does anyone know of a source for a replacement headlight lens?

Maybe @JAF/CO for a lens?
... @Dave Stromberger ?

 

[mrg]

Definitely 41 CWC built Hawthorne Comet, the catalog pic shows the Snyder version and those repop lenses have been available here and on ebay, and as said careful cleaning, tires, service and RIDE!