I bought the frame and fork new in early 1988, serial 26587, built by Derek Land. At Mercian, each builder assembles the entire frame. I built it with Campy NR and tubulars and rode that for many years, now it's Ultegra 6600 with a 10-speed cassette so you'll have no problem with an 8 or 9. I built the wheels with Velocity Aeroheads (which have been the most bulletproof rims I've ever used) and run racing 23mm tires. IMO a handmade steel frame with modern components is the best of both worlds. Like rustystrings61 my Pro is remarkably nimble and surefooted at the same time, and it fits me like a glove. Every time I get on it I smile. Since this picture I've switched to a Brooks Cambium saddle and pulled off the Flight Deck and associated wiring but this is pretty much how it sits today: