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@StandardPractice
No. That to me is a really perverse idea and not at all 'ideal'. Modern technology should never be shoehorned into a shiny silver hub. Modern technology would be intrinsically something completely different. You can see what it looks like by looking at the top-end of what is on sale everywhere.
Why should things be inauthentic? Don't forget that old things aren't always actually better-looking (what does that even mean?), but in fact are imbued with a nostalgic and heritage. That is what the word classic means. Things that are widely considered to be classic become so by, over time, being judged to be outstanding in some respect.
What you are suggesting is no different to new houses being built with half-timbered 'mock tudor' exteriors. They are built, or should I say procured, using current materials and technology but emulate an historical appearance, essentially because people take a certain comfort in the familiarity of understood superficial style. It holds a certain weight, but it is my opinion completely backward.
Things can take on the *spirit * of old-fashioned things - the pursuit of performance, craft, design intent etc.- but shouldn't have to look old-fashioned. Things move on and in no time at all 2009 super record derailleurs (for instance) will take on the same measure of charm as a well-buffed yet archaic friction shifter.
I am the first to go pieces over a nicely thought-out, antique component, but making things look that way deliberately can only ever be retro; that is to say retrospective, fake and, ultimately, dishonest. I personally don't always buy into the modern(ist) idea that things should outwardly reflect their material constitution and means of fabrication, but at least let's have some respect for the cultural importance we place in things.
Rant over.