Will certainly post pics of proofs when I get it. I'll take it over to Frank Elliot in Humboldt, TN, a couple hours west of Music City, and ask him to check it out as well. Charge still hasn't hit my cc, so no telling when the thing will actually ship.

Yes, the lesser known old European makers, especially French, Belgian, and maybe German seem like good candidates in the sub-$1000 price range, especially if you're not bothered by the odd cosmetic blemish or the need to stay on the light side with loads.
Cheers,
Bill