Preservation versus Restoration

[maple_leaf_eh]

Originally Posted by Mike Cecil

... I've seen telephone numbers as registration numbers on a jeep (the owner confirmed it!), and a hodge-podge of AIF, and AMF markings co-mingled, let alone the ones that pop up as pure fantasy. Sure, the 'barn find' MV is a gem, but there are precious few of those, and most go down the restoration path, spending considerable time, effort and money to bring a vehicle back to near factory fresh. But then apply a set of spurious markings.

...

I asked a British Gulf War collector that question. His four Rapier AA missiles had the same serial number, marked "SERIAL #". He said it was the birthday of the fellow who'd helped him with all the restoration.

Not mine, but it did prompt an engagement over the piece and its return from the grave. Maybe that served better than a perfect set of correct numbers. I say that because reading my nearby base's Ammunition Orders, they require empty containers to have the original contents markings cancelled. Spray paint is the easiest way. Horrible on the supply of unique or appropriate boxes for the future, but in the Ammo Compound it keeps their work simpler today and next week.

[KevinHann]

A really interesting read and as a a classic car owner aswel its something I come across on other forums.

We have a car, a 1937 Hillman 80 Limousine as used by Whitehall as official transport during the war. She is original, she carried her scars of a long life well. Yes the headlining is dirty and ripped in places, yes there are scratches and areas of dull paint and some tears in the leather....

But, we chose to preserve her not restore her. Mechanically we carry out regular checks and undertake work where necessary. Once the patina is gone it can never be 'restored' back into a vehicle.

Our trucks are different, they have required major restoration work. Its about understanding when and which course of action is required.

[Bruce MacMillan]

These thoughts apply to other areas of military collecting. Wireless sets is one of them. After the war radios were so cheap tons were bought for parts or modded by ham operators. Nobody wanted to sit and watch dust collect on that cool tank radio. I still have a few untouched originals but not because I saw the value of preservation rather I had so many I couldn't get to them all.