> Greg Parker writes:
> Interestingly, a pair of NOS world-logo hoods went for $108 on eBay
> just
> recently.
> Additionally, I currently sell NOS shield-logo ones for $79/pr. They
> are an
> extremely popular item.
>
> Jonathan Greene writes:
> if Campagnolo were to reproduce gum
> hoods what evidence is there that they would be affordable? Based on
> current
> Campy pricing I suspect this thread would next morph into how campy
> disrespects
> the small CR world by charging $100+ for gum hoods.
>
That's the fact, Jack.
I don't see the point of campy making re-issue hoods to fit old levers. The market is small, and they ... are .... still out there - I know of list members that have plenty in their kitty (my lips are sealed). We could all moan and goad Campy to make them and they would hit the shops at $120 and then wouldn't be sold. Somewhere down the track eBay prices and collector sentiment would reflect a big bias of higher prices for the originals rather than the scoffed at by purists re-issue hoods. Also, were campy to do this once it opens a precedent for us infantile collectors wanting Gran Sport hubs, derailleur pulleys and 44tooth 151bcd rings as well. Then there would be the complaints ..... not the right color, shape is different, my hoods tore when I installed them. Then they would have to go through the whole process again in 15 years. E-Richie's point of hassling Bianchi (et al) for lack of spares is also an excellent one. Campy made parts and way more than enough for the frames produced back then. I don't see much point in hassling Ugo or Ernesto for decals or a new old fork. Gios repro'ed the Super Record frameset 2 years ago and in very limited numbers and guess what, they're still sitting at Excel Sports for pittance .... less than what it would cost to purchase an original and have it correctly restored.
I think Campy are smart and prudent in not entertaining our collective wishes. those of you think they could turn a profit would be better suited to keeping your day jobs rather than selling options at the Board of Trade. Hoods are still out there and if it's important to you pony up and pay for the originals. Otherwise, for everything else there's Modolo, EAI et al. Somebody will pick up the ante and remake a small stash again, before being cited as having no soul and with evil intent for selling for $60+ on eBay.
In terms of what we represent as a market, is different to that of those into vintage cars and bikes - we aren't very organized or developed and very much in need of progression. Starts with official clubs with affiliations worldwide, paying members, annual meetings where agenda's are set, elected board members who are paid ... etc etc, then we can make some headway and look forward to re-issued parts and products to support our fancy. For now we are like the cats in Monty Python's "Life Of Brian" who call themselves the People's Front of Judea ... or should that be the Judean People's Front.
This topic is like them hoods - old.
Enjoy what you got & let's move on from "whoa be to me".
ciao,
Ben Kamenjas
Sydney, Australia