I am in the middle of my current bike build and it is now time to order a stem!

I am particularly drawn towards the Velo Orange stem here. I like the look and the polished silver.

I like the 17 degree stem so that it will be parallel to the ground when on the bike, but I want to use Nitto b123's and they are 25.4mm. The stem is 26mm

My question is should I by this stem and a shim, or are there any VERY SIMILAR classy looking stems with a 25.4mm clamp?

I use a Nitto B125 bar with a 31.8mm stem and shims w/o any problems, so you can certainly do the same with a 26mm stem. I am only aware of quill stems that fit 25.4mm bars.

Velo Orange also makes a 25.4mm threadless stem but it is a 6 degree.

I have a cannondale stem that I bought from the bike shop used and it is threadless and 25.4mm.
Atleast, that's what it says on the specs that are printed on the stem itself.
I always thought that my bars were 26mm though...

Iv used a 25.4mm flat bar in a 26mm stem with a strip of GoFast Energy drink can and never experienced any slip. Id say just use a pop can as a shim an do it.

Don't fear the shim. I am using the VO 17 degree stem with nitto b125's and a nitto shim and haven't had any problems.

Ditto, although my stem is a Nitto. The good thing about going this route is that you can put 26mm bars on there some day.

Ok thanks for the tips. I'll order the 17 degree Velo Orange stem tomorrow. Yes, the shim was making me a little worried, but your comments are reassuring.