ORIGINAL CASE COLORS
 

I think that a more objective way to detect original finish is by examining the engraving with a hand lens. Buffing the gun prior to recase polishes away a lot of fine structure. The attached photo shows a DH that has no color remaining but has not been buffed.

Best, Austin

Nice example Austin.

Re Cased Engraving
 

Here is a re case hardened DH frame. Scenes and background are not comparable among Parker's many engravers, but scroll is relatively consistent. Note the flattening of the scroll; a good indication that the frame has been re polished.

Best, Austin

Austin you should do a short article in PP with photos of what you just showed here. That's great information and reference.