Let me consult the archives.
ah, here we go.
http://www.rustyzipper.com/shop.cfm/rz/viewpartnum~118155-MM3515/backtorow~12/maxshow~20/startshow~1/SIZE~Any%20Size/ERA~ALL/TYPE~Clothing%20%26%20Accessories/SEARCH~%20ivy%20league/GENDER~ALL/PRICE~ALL/SITE~rustyzipper/118155-MM3515.cfm  http://www.rustyzipper.com/shop.cfm/rz/viewpartnum~118154-MM3514/backtorow~13/maxshow~20/startshow~1/SIZE~Any%20Size/ERA~ALL/TYPE~Clothing%20%26%20Accessories/SEARCH~%20ivy%20league/GENDER~ALL/PRICE~ALL/SITE~rustyzipper/118154-MM3514.cfm

This seems like one of those old clothing details that, if commandeered by a current designer, would be lauded as "modern"

I've seen plenty of women's shirts with sleeves like this, but not many men.  I think it might be cool.

would be nice to see worn.  The 3/4 sleeve reminds me too much of women's shirts.

I had an agnes b 3/4 sleeve polo shirt a few years ago, but something about a polo knit didnt make it seem too out of the ordinary.  But I agree that a designer take on the 3/4 buttondown would probably get some industry interest, then a year later it will be easily available in stores like The Gap