[ARC5] Black radios

[swkb4dmf at windstream.net]

---- Mike Hanz <aaf-radio-1 at aafradio.org> wrote: 
 However, that may not be enough to 
> sway some folks' beliefs, so your question and its implications are as 
> good as any.  After all, faith is assurance of things hoped for, a 
> conviction of things not seen... :-)

For years I had the opinion that wrinkle paint was popular because it helped hide surface flaws, 1930's and 40's manufacturing techniques being what they were and all.
However, when I started trying to paint things with wrinkle paint it made me quickly throw that theory out. Wrinkle paint actually amplifies the flaw because the flaw upsets the wrinkle pattern in a larger area around it. It can make a 1/16" diameter flaw into a 3/8 diameter flaw that draws your eye right to it. :-(
The more I work with this equipment the more I have come to respect the 30's and 40's manufacturing techniques actually. 
And as for the cost back then, If you've ever tried to make any of those little tiny square blocks that are riveted on and have the 3x48 threads, that seem be in these radios by the hundreds, suddenly that cost don't seem as bad. I can't imagine standing at a machine all day and being able to carry my days production in my shirt pocket. 
I work in manufacturing and I know what it takes to bring something from paper to product. It never ceases to amaze me as to what we managed to design and build during that time. 
In short, actual experience can change opinions and theories very quickly.

Steve
KB4DMF