maddox - The stock wheels on the 70's UO8 were 27 inch Rigida Chrolux and these also came in a 700c version (I have some) that were, as far as I know, not offered on any export models.

They are pretty but weigh a ton and don't lend themselves to good wet braking, even when you use high quality brake pads.

Anyone I know who has upgraded to alloy wheels has been amazed at how this transforms the bike... they get much lighter, roll out faster and are more efficient, and the stopping power really increases.