We periodically have this discussion and that's good. But I suspect it doesn't change peoples' minds or preferences. Is there such a thing as peer pressure here on the CR List? Maybe. But I doubt it.
Personally, I like to be period correct. Period. Frame, paint, components, accessories, riding kit. Everything. It's more costly, less convenient and challenging. Sometimes frustrating. More often rewarding. Like all the absolute pain in the *** issues with threading etc. I encountered with my 1980 Gilles Berthoud were completely forgotten on our first ride yesterday. She's perfection on two wheels, one of the best riding bikes I've owned. And yes, the toeclips, bar plugs, saddle.. are all period correct, all French. And that's what makes her wonderful. Or I like to think so. Who wants cheap n' easy in a hobby let alone a passion? Do bikes repay all of the work, money and dedication one invests in them? Mine do. I could buy a bike at Wal-Mart. And it sure wouldn't bring a smile to face like my Gilles Berthoud did yesterday. And it would be an "it" and not a "she".
Peter Kohler
Washington DC USA