Refinishing and restoration should be described precisely

Restoration is not automatically positive or negative. It depends on why it was needed, what material was removed and how well the work is documented.

A full refinish can radically change appearance and erase evidence useful for reconstructing history. A conservative intervention may stabilise damage while limiting loss of original material.

Avoid vague terms such as “restored” without explaining the work: finish, hardware, electronics, glue joints, structural and cosmetic work should be separated.

Before major work on a collectible item, consider specialist advice.