Yes, the paint looks much better in person, and does not appear so sparkly as it does in the pictures. Something about metallic specks and photos. Imagine the paint quality on a German car -- that's what it is.

I received a PDF list of measurements to be done on my end, with detailed instructions that no one can mess up. Then it was sent back to Chauncey Matthews. Then we communicated frequently before and during the build.

A previous customer of Matthews had ordered materials for his build, but then had backed out at last second. Chauncey saw my post about the Atrocity bike ( http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=446593 ) and emailed me to see if I would like for him to build a quality frame at a reduced cost. I had been looking for a frame I can build into an every-day ride, so after interviewing him, I decided to go with Chauncey Matthews. I'm glad I did, because the product that I received is outstanding. He's a very nice and knowledgeable guy. The total cost, with paint and stainless steel headbadge, is $800. (Remember, this is a reduced cost that I received. If you're interested, contact him; I think you can't get a better deal for a frame crafted by hands in the USA.)

http://www.livewirebikes.blogspot.com/

Thanks for reading everyone!