I find that my 1984 Lotus Classique is plenty visually appealing (at least to me). But its great we all have different tastes and interest!
I had a 1975 U08, bought new in the middle of the boom when my Continental was stolen. The bike never really fit, and I sold it last year.
I also find my 1987 Miyata pretty visually appealing.
The Japanese bikes from the 1980s attract me for several reasons. First, the build and finish work was much improved over similar bikes from the 1970s. Secondly, I like the components from that era much better. As an engineer who always worked in manufacturing, I appreciate quality and the pressure the Japanese brought to raising the bar. Third, they are pretty competitive weight wise with modern bikes, in stock condition, something I couldn't say about my U08 or the Continental.
If I could have afforded a Paramount way back then, my attitude about the 1970s would have been much different.