Posted by TubaJohn on December 29, 1999 at 13:00:54:
Over the summer, I just picked up a nice 1926? vintage, 3pv, Bb Conn helicon. Other than needing some minor dent work, a new leadpipe, and a good cleaning, it is in very good condition and has a lot of local history behind it. I am interested in putting some money into this instrument to make it look nice and play well. My question is this:
Would I be detracting from it's value as an antique by only giving it a low-cost cleaning and basic maintainance to reserve it's historical significance... or... giving it a full blown restroration job on it, ie., satin silver finish, rebuilt valves etc. (Or as much as my wife will allow!)
Please keep in mind that I am not in this as a money-making thing, just to have an unusual instrument that plays well. MMM... Am I watching too many Antique Roadshows???
Any observations are welcome.