Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 850
Likes: 4
From: Cowan Heights, CA
Bikes: Wizard, Eisentraut, Paramount, Litton, Turner, Surley, Trek, Kona, Landshark, Hujsak, Masi, Tesch, Holland, Retrotec, Spectrum
Gunnar's are highly regarded. Made by Waterford in Wisconsin. Frames are ~1,400.00. Using Ribble or one of the other UK sites you might be able to squeeze a 105 or possibly Ultegra build in for near your budget. Probably closer to 3K all in.
You may also look at the used frame market. I picked up a Spectrum Super Titanium frame for $750.00 and will be just under 2K with an Ultegra drivetrain, Pacenti wheelset, and some parts I already had. I've taken this route several times and have been able to ride very nice bikes that I would not have be able to if I went "new".