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Originality v Durability.......continued
This is where it starts getting tricky, the bonnet crest had suffered under the African sun, particularly the orange bars that had dried out and were literally crumbling in front of my eyes, to fit 'as is' would have seen the enamel continue to fall out! (Note: I have noticed that in general the orange enamel bars tend to be less durable than the black....perhaps some reaction between the colour/enamel process?). Again I could have fitted a 'better' early badge but it wouldn't have been the one that had seen so much of the world so step forward Mike Birtwistle hear in the UK who has a great eye for detail and kindly agreed to take on a sympathetic restoration of the original bonnet crest; full restoration is one thing but to achieve what I was looking for in terms of "Originality v Durability" takes skill and self control! To say I am pleased with what Mike has achieved is an understatement........thank you Mike:
