To those who collect old lighting fixtures:
Of course we can all dream of finding the un-restored, factory-original 1947 Leko in a barn that was only driven by a little old lady at church on Sundays; but "this is reality, Greg." When purchasing an antique fixture on say an auction site, what is your preferred condition:
If the price of #1 is $25, would you be willing to pay $50 for #2?
How about $500 for #3?
How important is the original engine (socket)? How about an original lamp? Would you rather it came with a domestic bulb for living room use? Should any alterations be easy-reversible (first, do no harm)? Authenticity or usability?
Or should we just make them all into table lamps ?
Of course we can all dream of finding the un-restored, factory-original 1947 Leko in a barn that was only driven by a little old lady at church on Sundays; but "this is reality, Greg." When purchasing an antique fixture on say an auction site, what is your preferred condition:
- Original condition, never updated. Only ever given preventative maintenance, if any at all. Dents and scratches add patina (aka expensive dirt).
- Asbestos abated. Fully restored to better than factory specification. Could be confidently used to light any show.
- Completely tricked out. Parts chromed, painted in custom scheme, ready for designers' showroom.
If the price of #1 is $25, would you be willing to pay $50 for #2?
How about $500 for #3?
How important is the original engine (socket)? How about an original lamp? Would you rather it came with a domestic bulb for living room use? Should any alterations be easy-reversible (first, do no harm)? Authenticity or usability?
Or should we just make them all into table lamps ?
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