Here's a glimmer of optimism: there are still occasional bargains to be had on ebay. For example, here's a set of top-of-the-line bars, stem, barcons, and brake levers, that just sold for $40 shipped :
If I hadn't showed up to drive up the price, it would have sold for $33. The bars ($40), barcons($30), and brakes/stem($20) individually are worth 3x what would have been paid ( if i hadn't muddied the waters .)
- Don Gillies San Diego, CA, USA
P.S. there are still great bargains to be had if you will use something other than Campagnolo Nuovo/Super Record, or Suntour Superbe. Vintage Dura-Ace, SR Royal, and Suntour Cyclone (1970's) parts are all quite cheap, even today. Shimano NOS brakes, $40, NOS crank, $80 (1st generation black dura ace), Spiedel semi-NOS crank ($40) with caps/bolts. And MKS NEW SL pedals for $25 (bensbike.com, imho a parts KOF.)
In my opinion, The Sugino and SR Royal/4Sir and Suntour and Sunshine parts eclipsed the Campagnolo/Cinelli cabal sometime between 1975 and 1985. Lighter (even more titanium / drillium) and very durable. Many Italian snobs won't admit this.