I am not at liberty to discuss specific pricing of my Marnati...but it was VERY affordable compared to even low priced new American frame builders. I'm honestly not sure how he was able to sell it at that rate and it's clearly a labor of love. Some of this has to do with currency and exchange rates. To answer your question, Daniele Marnati is a 2nd generation frame builder working in Milan. Both of the Marnatis worked as mechanics to teams and built frames with other decals on them...I've seen about 10 frames (in person) baring Marnati decals now and I haven't seen one I didn't find distinctive and beautiful.

I'd go with lugged Spirit myself.

I did something somewhat similar with my bike, except I kept it vintage/classic in a few areas (bars, stem and seat post). Frame is Columbus MAX. This is an older photo and it's a little different now...