My frame was built by Daniele Marnati in Milan...he's built far more frames than most US builders. He asked me a series of questions that I gave him answers to and he built me a bike that I dream about at night. It's that good. He built me a great all arounder' Italian traditional frame - he's not who I'd go to for stainless steel. I think having a local builder is ideal, and preferable, but not 100% required if you give the right metrics and your builder knows what he's doing. If you CAN, do a true fitting. I'd rather have a true master builder at a distance than a local one who isn't as talented.

As far as picking one - research - research it a lot. Talk to them...see who you connect with. I like builders who are known for one or two things rather than guys who offer every thing there is. Tom Kellogg loves ti - if you want ti, go to Tom Kellogg (he's expensive!). The best production frame I've ridden was designed by Tom Kellogg. If I wanted a touring frame, I'd be more likely to talk to Bruce Gordon. It all depends on what you want.

Who are you talking to now and where do you reside? Happy to give advice as able.