Re:
Evening gents
Being somewhat older than average on here, I have had the pleasure of looking at and buying stuff, that now fetches high prices, because they are NOS.
What I can tell you is, that back when the parts were new and introduced to the marked, I didn't hesitate for one second to get those new parts on the intended bike, and try its functionality out. I never ever had one single thought about collecting or keeping for a sale some 30 years on. The parts were seen as progress to the then current standard, and we were all looking for new improvements, weight savings or just bling no one else had.
This actually helps me to this day, when bikes with soul, functionality of yore and looks are still my main interest. My youngest bike is from 1996, and I simply do not care for what came after. What I do care about is bits, which are mint, pristine or patinated in a graceful way showing their age with pride. I do not mind buying NOS parts, as I really like to have fx. my rear derailleur as beautiful as possible. Even if I do get a NOS part in box and all, nothing has changed over the past 3-4 decades. I still look forward to trying it out; judging its look on the bike and of course functionality. I wouldn't miss it for the world by having parts in boxes not knowing their real potential.
Just a few words from a grumpy old guy still enjoying every moment, I can have on one of my bikes.
K.