New reproduction parts vs. original
The original post asked the question: Are my original parts worth less, more or the same as the new re-pop items? As someone who seeks out original parts relative to repro, I have been asking myself the same question lately. For me, part of the hobby is to seek out the rare parts and re-claim original whenever possible. However, I understand that others might have a different value proposition. Consequently, how do I protect my investment since free enterprise demands that reproduction items fill the void of NLA and rare unobtanium? I also understand that the market will value exact duplicates at a premium so there is an incentive for repro vendors to re-create original and disguise authenticity.
In fact, I was thinking to myself the other day that some enterprising chap could start making “original” dealer invoices. I hate to admit it, but I would probably buy a good repro dealer invoice customized to my car, sit it out in the sun for a few days and stuff it away for the years! Where do we draw the line?
No easy answer – as I see both sides. While I strive to obtain original parts, I need to confess that I’ve added reproduction items to my car when I’ve run into the NLA constraint (example: hounds-tooth seat inserts). Also, I just bought some repro chrome horn grills that are truly works of art. However, my personal standard is not to add an aftermarket trim part to my car if there is an original within reach. So far, I’ve been fortunate to find what I need (i.e., muffler tip, roof rack, ski rack, rocker trim, hood badge, shift knob, key pouch, driving lights, etc.) at a fair price plus I like the hunt. (Note: I’m willing to pay more for original, but I recognize it comes down to one’s perception of value and build standards.) Personally, I apply a different standard to wear items, body panels, engine internals, etc. as I don’t expect a future buyer to discriminate on those types of components. ??
Back to the proposition of how do I protect my investment in original parts? I think both the buyer and seller can work together to ensure the marketplace is balanced. I can ask for documentation and or factory packaging when I buy original parts. Or, I can ask the seller to provide a narrative of where the part came from to document source. I can also just gamble that the truly qualified buyer will appreciate authenticity when he sees it. ?? Finally, I think that we can ask the repro vendors to share the burden and mark their products to identify origin. At the end of the day, it’s just a hobby so investment concerns should not rule day and I do, for one, appreciate repro vendors enhancing the resourcing of rare parts so that future generations can appreciate these rare and special machines.