My eyesight is fine but they tend to find bikes that folks say need more work than what they are worth to ride. These bikes are classics for sure but they could be right because I don't know how to replace parts myself.

Yesterday I took my Mondia Special into the shop and they suggested, once again, that I replace the crank set and chainings. I LOVE MY Chainings. They are so cool compared to the new stuff out there. The big problem is that I live in Seattle and need more climbing power.

Would replacing vintage parts with more vintage parts be an act in futility?

You should still be able to find TA rings for the TA Cyclo Touriste crank (try Harris cyclery) and those are a good match on a classic Swiss bike, I reckon. Big range of sizes for that crank, you should be able to get the gear you need for Seattle...if the shop can't work on old bikes and parts, find another shop that can. Or (better yet) learn to do it yourself...it's one of the beauties of owning a classic, and not that difficult.

My Mondia Super came with a Suntour Superbe 52/42 front. Because the BCD was 144, the smallest ring I could buy was a 41 - hardly worth the expense.

I lurked on eBay for a while, and came up with a newer but still vintage Suntour Superbe crank set in 53/39 - mo' betta....

Plus, the BCD is smaller so I can futz with the ring combos if I want. I've got hills all around, and so far, so good. Not as good as a triple, but good enough.........

I am not in Seattle, but I would try Elliot Bay Cycles, I am pretty sure they speak vintage.

If not, take a drive down to Olympia & talk to Bill Stevenson or Cory Thompson at The Bike Stand (downtown, 4th & Adams). Suggest a call first so you can do it on a day when Bill or Cory is in. Well worth the trip. Another alternative would be a short ferry ride accross to Kingston & check out Kingston Classic Cycles. Don

My 1975 Mondia Special is equipped with a Campagnolo Nuovo Record Crank and Chain Rings although I don't know the threading of the bottom braket. Could be French or could be Swiss. Regardless, please consider a switch to Campagnolo NR. Pricey but available.
Mercurys37
Marietta, GA