Charles Andrews wrote... But, I think it's the real deal.
I think so too. This is based on a club teammate of mine 30 years ago who bought two in quick succession. Both were from Talbot's in Northern California. I think they were the only shop on the West coast that had them. The two bikes I know of were both 55cm (ct), same decals and appearance as Charles' acquisition. Only thing that appears different is the BB shell sockets, and no ebay image of the underside is shown to confirm any cut outs. The two from Talbot's in 1974 that I was aware of first hand were of purple and orange, both opaque colors. The purple one got wrecked two day's after purchase. Given to the insurance co. of the at fault car driver, rider ok. The orange was best described as Molteni orange. Both bikes had pantographed parts, the brake & shift levers, stem, seatpost and large chainring had DeRosa with simple typography except the o which had a small heart inside and an oversized circle for the o.
The bikes that I am familiar with were Columbus SP, allegedly, probably were, they were not light. Both had 32° rims, short reach brakes (the first I saw). They were Not cheap, $850. was the price before tax I was told. Masi's were escalating with the inflation of the era but were $675. at the time. I wanted one but my mounts needed the help of an employee discount to justify.
I do not remember Diamond section chain stays on these bikes, the next year I saw examples that did have that feature.
One thing that stands out was the BB drop, it was 75mm below the wheel axles, definitely a Road frame. Most noteworthy bikes that came by the shop I worked at got this type of scrutiny.
They were rare in 1974, just more so today. Glad I was not aware of this one having spent well when it mattered elsewhere.
John Jorgensen
Palos Verdes Ca