Primarily Petroliana Shop Talk Forums Shop Talk Petroliana Forums General Petroliana Discussion Restoration: Good or Bad?

I'm sure it depends a lot on the skill of the restorer but, in general, how does the value of a restored sign compare to one in original, aged condition with some chips and rust? More or less? Sign in question below:

I think the biggest problem with restoring, and I think you mean specifically, repainting, is that you no longer know what the original sign condition is. The unknown scares buyers and they will pass on the item. I don't mind when people restore one side of a sign, personally, because you know the sign condition. Years ago I used to fix chips on porcelain signs, etc, I dont do it anymore.

I prefer all of my signs in unrestored, original condition. I don't like the looks of touch-ups and I think restorations bring out the "unknown" like Paul mentioned. I remove all touch-ups on my porcelain signs (not as easily done on painted ones).

Just my preference,
Steve

IMO as a collector, the value of a restored sign isn't much more than what the signs value was worth before. Original Porcelain is the value, filler and paint are just hiding the damage.

I have purchased a couple and found out after and stripped all the clear and repairs on one that I still was able to break even. The second one the auctioneer took back and refunded me after I showed him it had been clear coated.

Another reason to always carry a sharp pocket knife...LOL