How about an Alan Super Record with titanium Galli group and tapered roller bearings? Or maybe the original Klein Stage? Bikes went downhill after that time. Seriously, I suppose the pinnacle would be a good 1940's 531 DB frame with a Nivex or French Cyclo derailleur. Bikes haven't gotten any better since then; it's just that the fads change.
Leonard Bulger
temporarily sunny Ann Arbor