Here are photos showing one of the original 1960s versions with clip, that Steven M. and Bob H. mention:
http://www.wooljersey.com/
Note that the manufactured straight levers are deeply curved, much like the ones Schwinn modified on their Record hubs for the Paramount in the early-mid 1970s. Look at the last photo to see how well the right one tucks away, while the left will still stick out a bit because of a lesser bend. It may also be partly due to the left clamp being misshaped and a smaller size at 25.0mm, as opposed to the 28.8mm right. I originally purchased these as a set of four ... all bent. Did Campy bend these levers or was it done after-market?
Ciao, Mark ~ ~ ~
Date: Sun, 23 Jul 2006 20:11:17 -0400 From: "The Maaslands" <TheMaaslands@comcast.net> To: "CR" <Classicrendezvous@bikelist.org> Subject: [CR]Campagnolo quick release seatpost binder bolts?
The Campagnolo Q/R seatpost binder bolts have existed for a very long time. There are at least 3 different models that are on-topic for the CR list, plus some others that would be off-topic.
The first two models were launched around 1960 (plus or minus 5 years). Both used a clip design (back in vogue with modern frames today!). The one had the Q/R lever integrated into the clip from above, whereas the other had the skewer just like a hub Q/R. Both of these were mainly used for the folding bikes that were all the rage in Italy in the 60's. I believe these were the main market for these. In the late 60's, a lighterweight version was developed that was made in such a way that it could readily be substituted for almost any regular binder bolt. I truly doubt that they were ever used as standard issue on any large scale lightweight bicycle however, as they were obviously more costly and there is no logic in using one for 99.99% of all bike riders, as once the saddle height is set properly, you needn't adjust it again.
The folding bikes were however another question as the bikes were marketed to those who wanted to be able to pack them in a small space, and lowering the saddle created a definite volume improvement.
Personally, I fitted one in 1981 or 1982 at the stoker's position of my tandem (along with a lady's saddle) while at University as I was always riding with different stokers and the Q/R allowed for immediate adjustment to suit the newest companion.
I have seen a few up for sale on ebay, but they have never sold that well, so they are apparently not overly sought after.
Steven Maasland
Moorestown, NJ