Hey Mimi, I know it's not what you wanted but I kinda dig the new look. I think the chrome adds that classic look to the bike.

I can't see the details (more pix?) but I think the chrome on the seat stays, the fork crown and half the fork kinda give it a nice balance. But again, I can't see the details.

It kinda looks like the classic green Legnano bike on this page:

http://www.classicrendezvous.com/Ita...gnano_main.htm

Check out the history of the builder too.. interesting link w/ Bianchi

However, the extra cost for something you don't want is a bummer... Hope it works out for you.