Alternate view here - go with friction shifters. If you want new I've heard good things about Rivendell Silver shifters. Otherwise, just get some vintage suntour or shimano XT thumbies.
I feel that it was very common for companies to modify spec's throughout the season - that can include components, but might include finish/paint and potentially tubes/frame designs. I'd view the catalogue as the product managers ideal concept for the bike based on his/her perception on...