The MARTIN TENOR-to re-lacquer or not ??

[tsaxy]

I have an opportunity to purchase a THE MARTIN TENOR #202,9xx for a reasonable price($700.) . It is not very pretty. Probably a 7 on a 10 scale. Pits on the bell extrior lip and interior, nec.k about 50% pitted. Solder repair heat blemish on the lower C# post and the bell note key guard post
What appears rust on some of the bell engraving,some sort of discoloration,anyway.
The horn is in excellent mechanical playing condition and has a good tone and lower register subtone. Has new pads with plastic resonators. It plays great,just a little ugly.
Was wondering if I should leave the appearance as is ,or have a re-lacquer job and some small dimple dents removed. Would it decrease its resale value? Does anyone have a ball park figure on re-lacquering and where one might send a horn for this job? From a distance the horn looks OK.
thanks for any input.

Bob

[Alan G]

eeck! Don't ReLacquer!

Enjoy the personality of the horn.

One option - short of relacquer - try this to improve appearance - take the horn to a very reputable repair technician. Have 'em "chem" or "brite" dip it. That'll remove all the rust. Then (without any buffing or anything) have a light coat of clear Lacquer sprayed on. This will leave the dark lacquered areas dark..and the bare areas bright. It is actually not bad looking - I had my Martin Indiana Alto done this way - and like how it turned out. It's been about 15 years now (!!!) and still it looks good.

Of course - the horn will have to be completely disassembled to do this.

[Bootman]

Get it plated not relacquered. This will cost more but it will last for years. It will also add value to your horn.

[tsaxy]

Thank you both for your in put. I have cleaned and polished the horn and it looks some what better. For now I will leave it as is,it is a very good player and that is the main criteria.
I will consider the options you both mentioned.Thanks,again.

bob

[MusicMedic]

another horn saved by SOTW! :D

[Bootman]

Indeed, another vintage horn has been saved.