I suspect that the old French stuff will be worth less in ten years. Collectors with large disposable incomes buy what they lusted after in high school. At least that's what happens with cars. For investment purposes we should be hoarding early mountain bikes, pre-Quantum Kleins, and American made exotic componets. Maybe put away some 20 speed bic bikes too, because there won't be many surviving 20 years from now.
If I take my own advise, I should ebay my 543, and buy some purple, cnc machined mountain bike parts. Somehow the idea is repugnant though.
Leonard Bulger
Ann Arbor, MI