Here is the evidence.

I've only taken a very short ride, but I can tell this bike can climb, and is quite nimble. I know it's not C & V, but it is steel, and the frame is generally in the classic mold. Not crazy about the bar tape, but it's cork, and probably won't last much more than a year. The stem is fugly, but this set-up fits me perfectly, and it was like this on the floor of the shop. The wheels are hideous too, but I pretty much have to give them a chance. Flame suit is on. oh - and the pedals... just haven't switched them out yet.