[Hammarlund] OT: Observation

[Todd Bigelow - PS]

I agree totally, Alan -

Probably 95% of the gear I have is stock, original paint. Maybe even more.
Although I don't pick up radio gear for its antique or 'investment' value, I do
like the history behind them. It's great to look at the old wooden radios made
before WWII and wonder if FDR's words came crackling through the speakers after
Pearl was attacked. The same with the old boatanchors, just to wonder about the
what QSOs and other events took place via that radio. Someone out there has my
old FT-101EE(first rig!)which borught me the invasion of Greneda through the eyes
and words of one of the medical students there, Mark Baratella, who was also a
ham. Ended up selling it off when my new(10 years older, actually) KWM2-A arrived
and I did a side-by-side comparison.

Unless a peice of gear is rusty or otherwise deteriorating from its present
state, I leave them alone. They've earned each of the character marks they have
on them in one way or another. If the radio is truly beat up and would restore
well then, sure - I'd probably bring it back to a better place. Rust has to be
dealt with, no choice in the matter. The trick is knowing the difference between
everyday wear and tear, and actual damage. As well, looking for a clean rig is
alwways the best approach if cosmetics are a concern. I always try to find rigs
with a clean front panel if it's silkscreened and good paint in general, since
that happens to be an area of little knowledge for me.

Right now there's an old RCA AR-88LF under the Desk KW waiting for a panel
refinish and cabinet repaint. This came out of a damp basement or storage shed
where the former owner kept it, so it has the tell-tale 'freckles' of rust on the
front panel, which is steel. Fortunately it has stamped lettering, si it should
be an easy job, if time becomes available again.

When it comes to a repainted rig, I am very fussy. It has to be original paint(or
type/color) and original lettering, done using the original method. Too often you
see a 'restored' radio that looks good from a distance, but once you get close
the dry-transfer letters jump out at you. With the many people who now specialize
in painting and screening, there's really no reason to butcher a radio anymore.

73, Todd/'Boomer'  KA1KAQ

ARDUJENSKI@aol.com wrote:

> My wife has collected antiques for decades and it decreases the value if the
> piece is refinished. It is rather curious to see folks paying premium prices
> for rigs that have been repainted, etc. I sort of enjoy having a rig that has
> a few wear marks showing its service stripes so to speak. I am glad to see
> some rigs are still available that are clean originals with a little
> character and not demanding top dollar as they probably should (smile). I
> have just given a home to a HQ-110 and a HQ-129X and just marvel at the
> craftsmanship. If only they could tell tales (grin).
>
> Alan KB7MBI