In the late 40s early 50s Mercians where well liked by the lads, I could NOT at that time afford a Mercian and went with a Claud Butler,( financed by my Dad), NOW I have TWO Mercians, a 1950 RoadPath (That I wanted back then) and a new 2006 Marcian Vincitore that I am VERY pleased with, So I AM somewhat biased, BUT both frames are first class, Of course it depends on how much you want to spend, there is a wide choice of vintage frames around, I think!!!! (there I go again), look for good tubing 531 or Columbus, I prefer lugs, Nervex etc, try to get a frame that does NOT need refinishing, THIS can get VERY expensive, getting the decals, transfers is a big job in its self, Nick at lloyds has most, but some are VERY hard to locate, happy hunting, Cheers John Crump OldlovetheMarciansBrit, Parker Co.USA