Author
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Topic: Worth refinishing base of vintage Apollo LM?
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davidcwagner Member Posts: 799 From: Albuquerque, New Mexico Registered: Jan 2003
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posted 07-01-2017 09:29 PM
I have an Apollo lunar module model similar to the one in this RR auction. My model is in better condition, but the base is scuffed and faded. Is it worth refinishing the wooden base to match the one in the auction? |
Jurg Bolli Member Posts: 977 From: Albuquerque, NM Registered: Nov 2000
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posted 07-01-2017 10:53 PM
I have no idea about the value of this but if it makes you happy to have the base redone, then go ahead and do it, I doubt you'll regret it! I am sure it will look great. |
Rick Mulheirn Member Posts: 4167 From: England Registered: Feb 2001
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posted 07-02-2017 10:35 AM
To get a good finish David I think you would have to remove the brass plaque and the plastic stand holding the decent stage engine locating pins. I've never tried it myself but if you can remove them successfully I would go for it. A nicely done base would set the model off beautifully. |
Chuckster01 Member Posts: 873 From: Orlando, FL Registered: Jan 2014
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posted 07-02-2017 11:35 AM
Not to be the black sheep in the thread but I always believe original is better for collector resale value. As with most antiques, if not done perfectly it could greatly diminish the value of the model.If done as a top quality restoration to original it could enhance that value. I personally do not have the skill needed to perform such a restoration and would not risk such a rare model to try. |
capoetc Member Posts: 2169 From: McKinney TX (USA) Registered: Aug 2005
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posted 07-02-2017 10:49 PM
Is it possible to make a new round wooden base to display the model? Then you can enjoy displaying it while preserving the original model for the future. |
freshspot unregistered
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posted 07-03-2017 04:15 AM
I'm with capoetc - I would keep the original as is and then make a new base for display purposes. |
Larry McGlynn Member Posts: 1255 From: Boston, MA Registered: Jul 2003
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posted 07-03-2017 03:51 PM
As a collector, I would want to restore the base. A good furniture restorer or local cabinet maker could do the job without taking the brass plaque off. The plastic center support probably unscrews from the bottom. |
Rick Mulheirn Member Posts: 4167 From: England Registered: Feb 2001
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posted 07-03-2017 04:47 PM
For what it's worth Larry, on the VIP bases the plastic centre piece is merely glued in to place. It looks a tad amateurish to be honest but thankfully the model hides it for the most part.It is worth mentioning also that the base in my post above was made from scratch to the exact specifications as an original. Only the brass plaque is original. I was fortunate to attend a local craft show several years ago and found a craftsman skilled in wood turning. I sourced the walnut and the dimensions... and he turned the wood. I then varnished the base, attached the green beize beneath and secured the central support and the plaque. I kept the original perspex base. |
davidcwagner Member Posts: 799 From: Albuquerque, New Mexico Registered: Jan 2003
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posted 07-03-2017 06:17 PM
Thanks for all the advice. I will leave as is for now. |