I'm a sucker for beautifully built bikes, and sometimes spend way too much money on a part just because it makes me feel good, like puting a '73 dated Campy Nuovo Record rear derailleur on my '73 Motobecane Grand Record. I know the other one I had on it worked fine, but when the '73 popped up for sale, I grabbed it. Oh well.
When the time came to sell that bike to help fund another bike for my wife, I had to face the decision of possibly doubling my money by parting it out or selling it whole. I sold it whole, and watch tears well up in the eyes of the buyer when he first laid eyes on it. He bought it for his wife for their 25th anniversary to replace one like it stolen in College back in the 70's. My beautifully restored (and way-over-built with all Campy) bike filled his wants and desires better than his wallet would have been able to handle had I parted it out. While I didn't make any money on the deal, I was more pleased to know it would be cherished as much as I cherished it.
Yep - I'm a sucker.
Dave Whitney
Portland, ME