Jason -

Thanks for the read. Very useful thoughts and good questions for discourse.

I don't believe I own a powdercoated frame. My Colnago and my Soma are paint and I believe my next bike in the works will also be paint.

I've read and heard the same issues in regards to paint vs. powdercoat and am led to believe that powdercoat is more durable but aesthetically is a bit more, "dull".

I'm a huge fan of American Chopper (the show on Discovery) and going through the seasons, I love watching the frame go to paint or powdercoat. While the powdercoat stuff is nice, it always ends up being that they have to ream or grind away pieces here and there because the coat is so thick -- thus is that why it lends itself to durability? In the show they even go on to state that they prefer the look of paint and how it pops and shines.

In the end, while I think paint chips easier and might not be as durable, the look of paint appeals to me. Good paint as you mention and state the case for, can look stunning. That wet, silky look is something I find lacking in powdercoat.

My position and choice would be to go paint and get paint done with someone who knew how to do paint well (like yourself). As with many choices we make with regards to what we get and how makes it and the quality vs the price, this is another good decision to make when considering the aesthetics of a frame.

Places like Cylclart may be expensive (as well as Spectrum) but the quality that comes out is beautiful, and yet another reason to understand who's painting or powdering your frame.