Brass Era "Retro" restorations

[DGPoff]

Am I the only one who noticed the disturbing trend of "retro" restorations on brass era automobiles? I saw more than 1 car for sale (for six digit dollars) that were proported to be 100% original including paint - but in fact had been "retro-restored" to indeed look that way. Then on the field at the show, I saw a steam car that had been totally restored to look like a recent barn find. It included well placed mud stains and everything. I heard the owner tell a viewer that the paint was "original." It may have been the original paint on a set of fenders made in 2002, but surely not original as the viewer meant in his question. A potential problem is that in 50 years, the real story may be lost, and someone may pay a premium for a car that was created recently!

Any comments?

[Steve Moskowitz]

Don, it is disturbing. A few of years ago a Mercer Raceabout was brought to Hershey alledgedly "restored" in the same manner. Most hobbyists are honest. Sadly, not all. I also am disenheartened about the lack of disclosure by well known folks in the brass hobby. If you sell a car, you should give an honest detailing of known major faults. I know of two 6 dgit cars offered for sale in the last couple of years that had cracked jugs but neither seller disclosed that info. Not sure how you ever deal with this type of stuff. <img src="http://www.aaca.org/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

[R W Burgess]

Don, This new retro scene started in the Rodding Community a few years ago. The ypaint the primer white or red than hand sand off the edges to make it look like a "barner". It's really hot with those guys right now, but like most fads will disappear in a few years. But, you're right , the unscruplous amoung us will use it to their advantagewhich makes it tough on judges. Ah, but look at the bright side. It makes better judges out of us as we educate ourselves to keep up with bad guys. Wayne

[1937hd45]

I've seen both the Mercer and Stanley that were mentioned above. I'd love to be able to do the same type of "retro" painting. There is something special about that look, just looks warm and friendly. I don't think there is a brass car guy out there that doesn't know the true hisory of these cars. However I DO draw the line when it comes to misrepresenting the condition of a vehicle. If you're going to step up and buy something questionable get some advice from knowledgeable people first.

[A. Woolf]

I suspect part of the idea behind these "barn fresh" appearing restorations is some owners thumbing their nose at the judging system. Those cars also draw a crowd. There is a lot of interest in unrestored cars these days.

BTW the if the Stanley is the Gentlemen's Speedy Roadster that was on the show field last year the car does have a provenance. It is not 100% fake like some that exist. <img src="http://www.aaca.org/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

Alan