Aldo Ross wrote, "Someone sent an e-mail suggesting that the "un-Italian" paint scheme on the green Cinelli isn't original. Any thoughts or comments from the Cinelli enthusiasts?"
I think that the only un-original parts of the paint scheme are the "fade to black" sections on the seat tube. The seller says that the stripes aren't original. I'm just guessing that there was paint damage in this area, and the "new" stripes and black fade paint were applied sometime in its past to mitigate the damage. The fade looks out of place and time, and not professionally done. Other than that, I think it is a very cool bike, and is just waiting for someone to give it the TLC it deserves.
Which brings up a question...I agree that the Cinelli has the patina of age, which I think is very attractive. However, if the paint and some decals are confirmed to be un-original, would you leave it in its unrestored but unoriginal condition, or would you be compelled to correct the paint and decals, and can this be done while still preserving the Cinelli's patina, or would a full restoration be necessary?
I guess that is more than one question...
Kevin Ko
Eugene, OR