Thanks to all that have commented on my posting about the Mercian Frame.OF COURSE ITS YOUR BUCKS DO what ever you like with it, BUT in the past, many, many listers have stated about leaving things as they are. KEEP it original. DON'T re spray if possible. This Confente all the posts about, original finish etc.Keep's the value!?? This Mercian, and I have TWO Mercians. My 1950 R/P that won Best Brit bike at LeCirque 2006?WAS refinished to VERY high standards BUT?as new in 1950 NO modifications, all, as built?new.?My 2005 Mercian Vincitore has the same lugs as the one in question?on Ebay, also the barbers pole. So, when I see that a classic frame One that was even built for a HEAD CLIP (must be a very early 50s frame), In MY mind, torn apart and made to look almost like a 2000s frame. Why not have?bottle?cage brazes on's?? Why didn't?Mercian cut the steerer tube to?accept the head set? ? Oh Well, as before. IT WAS HIS BUCKS,?I Will be VERY interested if ANYONE bids or buys on?this one.? Cheers John Crump OldandIamalloriginalBrit, Parker.Co USA??