My gunsmith is Brad Bachelder who will refinish to whatever look one desires.
I have a favorite #2 frame EH 10 gauge that I take in duck boats. That is a harsh environment for any gun. The EH had a bolt through the head of the head of the stock that I had Jerry Andrews remove and hide the work. Brad re-case hardened the gun and restored the barrels so that the gun looks far-from-new. The case colors and barrels are softer than the total restorations he has done for me.
Making Damascus barrels "pop" with high contrasting black and white requires more work than does an antique look. The important thing to remember is that the gunsmith needs to understand what you want since refinishing Damascus is somewhat subjective. Make certain that what you want is written on the work order. Provide a photo of the desired product if available.
Another point that I learned about restorations is that Parkers’ case colors varied by production period (of years). If you really like case colors of a Parker made in 1911 and provide the gunsmith a Parker from 1890 and ask for authentic colors, the result probably won't match those of the 1911 gun. If however you want colors to match the 1911 gun, ask the smith if he can do so. Some gunsmiths have discovered or developed specific formulas and processes for the different periods of case colors and refinishing Damascus, twist, and laminate barrels.
Talk to the gunsmith and ask him if he can reproduce the finish that you want. Provide a photo if possible.
Mark
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