[McLaren_Ferrari]

The "building in public" line of thought is that business/engineering is not special and is subject to the same laws as regular social interaction.

Meaning familiarity, networking and feedback are vital for success.

On the other hand, even in regular social interactions if you disappear for a while and then show up some time later driving a Porsche or a Ferrari that trumps familiarity, networking and feedback.

I'd say unless you are sure to show up with something that is essentially a Home Run, then the familiarity, networking and feedback of the building in public will be a tad better.

In the end it's also about the individual's personality. If you are driven by the journey then building in public is essentially some sort of diary, whereas if you are driven by results it's only natural that like an athlete you just want the spotlight on you during decisive moments.