I remember seeing articles in early 80's on Columbines, and they seemed decent, really beautiful lugged frames back then. But their current art versions as depicted on their web site lack anything I would want to buy or ride, and to me seem just like a bike for the rich and/or those that want to just say they spent X amount on a bike.
If you can judge a bike by a picture on a website, then you have a remarkable eye. Even the newer Columbines are well-made bikes. If you ever ride one or look at one up close, you might change your mind. You probably are judging based on whether or not it has fancy lugs or not. John Murphy still offers fancy lugs as an option, but most people don't have the bucks for that, particularly if he uses Stainless lugs as that takes mucho more time. Lou Deeter, "back from Cirque" Orlando FL "and owner of two Columbines"