There used to be a show on cable TV called "American Pickers." It was about two guys who traveled the nation, digging up interesting old antiques.
The one maxim that they worked by is: "It's only old once." That made sense to me.
In other words, if an item is worn, used, and has the patina of age -- but essentially complete and perhaps functional -- then leave it alone. The chronicle of its travel through time is there as testimony to its authenticity. Restore it, and that heritage is erased. Forever.
Analogy: Should the broken nose of the Sphinx be fixed? Should Dan Gurney's GT-40 be repainted? Should the Czar's Parker be refinished? These questions answer themselves.
As Dean notes, MUCH is subjective. But remember: It's only old - or historic - ONCE.
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