are there any current production 357 revolvers that would be considered as "classic" as the pre-lock 686?
Until Freedom Arms starts making DA revolvers, there's Korth and the Manurhin MR-73. Scant few here, myself included, know firsthand whether they live up to their reputation...or price.
A Ruger GP100 can also be considered as "classic" as it ever was, and it'd work well as a HD/range/IDPA gun. They may not have the fit and finish of classic Smiths, but they have a strong following because they are rugged and respond well to some basic action work. And speedloaders that work for L-frame S&Ws will also work with GP100s.
About Rugers in general, Cunningham, a well-respected revolver 'smith, recommends them. And he's "an admitted revolver snob who's known for working on Colt Pythons".
http://grantcunningham.com/blog_files/448400adaed4f0a82d4961b5b2d91d8b-116.html
http://www.grantcunningham.com/blog_files/fa40a3c723f6546360911369048cf49a-383.html