Originally Posted by
T Stew
Well this is C&V and usually folks here are extremely particular about good looks so I assume the OP is in fact concerned about looks. Though war wounds, patina, and the like are often embraced, especially if invokes sentimental feelings of your past rides. However as is the case with many of use acquiring older bikes, the wear was not our doing and in many cases undesirable.....
At the time I posted, there was no mention that the OP wasn't the original owner, but that may be besides the point.
I suspect that C&V people fall into two categories, those who treat the bikes as collectibles and are focused on condition and restoration. The others, like myself, appreciate classic bikes as great rides. This is especially true if we've owned and ridden the bike for years or even decades.
So, in some ways owning a fine old bike is like being married for a long time. Like your wife, the bike won't be in the same beautiful condition as when you first met, but you love it just as much if not more.