I have a few bikes: A Bianchi Pista, a Jamis Sputnik, and a Bare knuckle.
I recently bought the Stripper from Bike Island to build up with spare parts. It has quickly become my "go to" bike. The frame has just the right amount of flex for my NYC commute but retains a stiff responsiveness. It is similar to the Pista in terms of Geometry and road "feel" The quality of the frame itself is excellent for the price. I had my LBS hack down the fork and I have a 1 inch Chris King headset installed with a Thompson Elite 1-1/8th stem attached with the appropriate shim. Works fine. Im happy. Thread it if you want a retro quill stem but... thats not as easy for the LBS.
Each of the other bikes I have have merit but in terms of value? This is easily the best way to go if you MUST build up a bike. Otherwise the stock Pista is an excellent choice but then again so is the Sputnik. But then again I love the Bare knuckle even though its a little tighter and bit stiffer and way more expensive. Like shoes - size issue is most important thing to consider.