Ballia were Italian parts, came in center and sidepulls. In the 50s they were comparable to Universals, by the 60s, 70s they were kinda downgraded to cheaper bikes.

$1,500. for a production bike in the 70s? I kinda doubt it. $500.-750 would have bought you top of the line anything, all Campagnolo. My Cinelli was only $1,350. brand new in 1984, built to spec as I requested.