Hi John and crew,
The word back from Italy is that the paint is original and not a
repaint. Take a look around the fork tang area and you will see
excessive 'patina' or discoloration.... which says a lot about the
original uniformity of factory Cinelli paint or conversely the
effects that certain greases have on Cinelli Silver paint.
I know by experience that this bike would have been thoroughly
detailed before being presented on ebay. I wouldnt be surprised if
all of the clamp on fittings would have been carefully removed and
replaced so as to achieve a uniformity of surface tone after cleaning
and polishing. I know we love patina, but the Italians seem to like
'as new' as we have seen with several bikes recently restored which
arguably should have remained in their natural state.
Link again http://www.flickr.com/
John says...... Brian raises great points and I respect his expertise. The NOS early 70's Cinelli I owned exhibited obvious yellowing only in areas where there may have been residual grease. But, it could be that there was an overall yellowing that only would be apparent if my bike where side-by-side with a freshly painted one.
Greg Softley- could we trouble you to ask your friend if his eBay Cinelli has been repainted to his knowledge?
John Barron
Minneapolis MN USA
http://www.velostuf.com