Great Original vs basket case project

[MaineT]

What value do you put on your nice original machines that doesnt need anything vs a rusty project? If a total project needs a ton of work put into it, how would something without dents, rust and works fine be compared to the same machine?

I had someone go on ebay and find a listing for a rusted out machine that had to be restored and tried to get me to believe that's a good price for my nice original. It wasnt even presentable. Don't get me wrong, I'm nowhere near even half of the restored price so I'm not crazy, but am I realistic that 25%-35% over the machine pulled out of the field is reasonable???

I know to a restorer original doesn't matter, they need solid products to restore. I'm talking those of us that like originals.

[mygoose101]

I think it's well over 35%. If it's a really clean original I would even argue that it could be close to a restored machine price. Let's use a 81D as a reference. Assuming machine is complete a rust field find will always bring in $1500. Grade 1 restored $6000. Nice original $3000, but if it's a really clean nice original it could bring over $4000. Just my thoughts but what do I know...

[cokecolaman]

Ditto - I think mygoose is right on