In a message dated 3/10/2005 7:37:57 PM Central Standard Time, masi3v4me@yahoo.com writes: I wanted to know how satisfied you were on the completed work. How the Restoration Specialist treated you as a coustomer. Was the repaint true to form and correct? Was the cost affordable. How about the extras and add-on costs? The decal cost and their placement? Satisfaction overall, turaround time and correction of unsatisfactory work.
Brian Baylis restored a 1976 Masi GC for me about five years ago. The workmanship was perfect. A full and period correct set of decals were provided by Brian for a very reasonable price. Several dime sized dents in the frame were repaired so perfectly that I couldn't figure out exactly where they had been. The bike was an eBay purchase that was shipped directly to Brian, he disassembled the bike and shipped me the parts so that I could work on them at no extra charge. When the bike arrived it was properly packed. I didn't have to face the bottom bracket shell threads it was already done. Brian quoted me a very reasonable flat rate and stuck to it. There were no add-ons, no 'a la carte' charges, and no surprises. The work was perfect. I was satisfied, and have sent him additional work, and a sizeable deposit for my Baylis custom. You can't go wrong, especially for a correct Masi restoration.
I've seen Joe Bell's work on a new Rivendell which I purchased. Joe does an excellent job as well. I haven't seen any of his restoration work but his standards are probably as exacting there too.
I know both these guys are very busy so I can't tell you about turn around time -- I'm sure they'll give you a fair aproximation. My experience with Brian was very very good. Correction of unsatisfactory work? I've never heard that come up with either of these guys.
Check the archives for comments about other restorers before you decide -- there's lots of stuff there.
Regards,
Carlo Carr
New Orleans