Lisa
there is a considerable romance surrounding old world Italian craftsmanship.
Take a simple thing, like a hook to hang your clothes on, or a plate, or a knife.
It's not enough to make something functional, it must also be sublime and beautiful. The knife will have a beautiful line to it, and maybe a handmade design. The hook might have a fleur di lis on the top of it, and it will be strong enough to hold your painting.
Take Campagnolo. These campy parts are made with elegance. They are designed beautifully, and unlike shimano parts, most of them can be rebuilt.
(ask Deb about this )
Clunky is the opposite of Italian. The lines are sweet, they are well made, and for the most part,they are practical.

Now for the downside of Italian craftmanship. Since they are very much in
demand and they HAVE been doing this for hundreds of years, they are the experts, and they are not going to take too well to suggestions.

I have spoken to various LBs's about the Bianchi line for example. I ask them
don't you ever suggest to these guys that we need space for fenders?
I get eye rolls.

so that's the conundrum. I guess when I move to Italy I will buy an Italian bike because it will be adapted to the climate.

So Lisa, does that make sense?
And who pray tell set the standard for the Violin? It wasn't someone from
(add random country here) it was an Italian.