I see a couple of problems in this rating process as we have pursued this thread..
First, many of you (and me) have not examined, with a close and critical eye, all these builders we are discussing.. That makes the pronouncements that one builder is better than another kinda limited and uninformed. I was particularly taken with some members who didn't go along with praise of Confentes.. and it turns out most had never even seen one!
Second, the criteria for judging quality or merit has not been agreed upon. Each judge so far has used their own standards but I see different standards being used, making it an unequal process...
So perhaps we should back up and define, at least for ourselves, WHAT would make a builder "great" or a stand out in a diverse history of cycle making?
After the basics of the frame being properly designed (ride), I personally value a frame's craft, handwork, refinement and a uniquely personal "look" that sets the work apart. I am reminded of Grant Peterson's statement about his hoping that some archeologist digging up a Rivendell in 200 years and would be able to tell from the lugs etc., what it's identity is.. Rivendells are a little over the top in that way maybe, but at least being up to a high a standard of finesse and style is crucial. IMO, it is impossible for a builder to ascend to the highest level by straight up assembling frames competently with standard pieces and yet having no individualistic character as part of the package...
I hate to rate custom frame builders but in the USA, I would offer these as my "Top Post War" (in alphabetic order as some of these guys are friends and I would hate to rank them..!) I have critically examined each of these builder's work and rate them as "Masters." BTW, it is almost impossible for factory produced bikes or even workshops where there is a "production" taking place, to rank with these "Auteur" produced frames....
Brian Baylis Mario Confente Albert Eisentraut (Earlier A frames only) Glenn Erickson McLean Fonvielle Bruce Gordon (1970 & early 80s lugged only) Mark Nobilette (Earlier top model frames) Richard Sachs Peter Weigle
(I have an uneasy feeling I have left out a worthy favorite! I am also being generous and forgiving some stinkers I have seen by a few on the list.)
There are builder s who are very very good but who lack that, yes, high-craft or artistic viewpoint. I was going to list them but I think that might just irritate their fans! In this group we see: - the builder who aspires to sell a whole bunch of their frames and turns the process into a production mode rather than a one-at-a-time process or, - the builder who wants to make a "no-nonsense" bike to ride and "all that aesthetic stuff is silly" (Tractor makers?)
Just my 3 cents!
Dale Brown