There are 600 page threads debating the merits of "open mold" direct from China frames. Without rehashing all that, If you *do* decide that is the route you want to go, there are some things to be aware of before you click the "Buy Now" button.

The frame distributors don't view an ebay auction the same way as most Americans. To them, the auction is just an advertisement for things they believe they can get, not necessarily things they have. Do not assume that what's listed in the auction is actually in stock. For things not in stock, lead times can vary wildly (from a few days to "never").

What you want to do *before* you buy, is establish contact with the seller, tell them exactly what you want, and ask how long it will take before it ships. The vast majority of sellers will provide completely honest answers to such questions. When something isn't in stock, they can often suggest an alternative that is (different finish, BB type, or slightly different model). Negotiate everything first and then when you have a final agreement, use Ebay to close the transaction and make payment.

You may also want to consider buying direct from one of the distributors that has established a good reputation for sales and support. None are perfect, but Xiamen, Deng Fu, Hong Fu, Honor Bikes, and others appear to have more satisfied than dissatisfied customers as well as documented evidence of actually supporting what they sell (to the extent the modest prices allow). Again, pre-sales communication is key to how happy you will be with the transaction.

Ignore the zealots (on either side), do your homework, understand the compromises, set reasonable expectations, communicate, and you will have no problem making the right choice.