How far should I go? national grande consul refurb

[Robert Burgess]

Just arrived and slightly looking her age, my 1950 grand-consul D8, playable when re-strung as all electrics ok some chipping to finish, a split on the front neck perspex by the top screw (inch long) has the original screw connector so maybe change for jack socket. I would like it back as-new but would this knock the value? all else-case original and ok.I usually go for modern tuners but this may be a no-no.

[Frank James Pracher]

I personally would clean it up and play it. The nicks and dings give them character in my opinion. I will say that I had a National Console Grande with some tuner issues and new Kluson individual tuners dropped right in without any modding.
It's a cool guitar, one of the ones I wish I never sold.

[Jay Fagerlie]

Keep it stock!!

Call it "salty"

[Mike D]

Of course make it playable, but do as little as possible cosmetically if the original finish remains.

[Blake Hawkins]

I agree with all of the above. What you have is a classic. Clean it up and enjoy playing it.
My guitars are all from that era, and I enjoy the feeling I get from playing them. Scratches, dings and all.

If you want a shiney, new, guitar please sell that one and purchase a new one. There are many fine ones made by George Boards, Herb Remington, MSA,
Sierra and others.

Whatever you decide, you have my best wishes for
your enjoyment of creating fine music on the steel guitar.

[Robert Burgess]

Of course make it playable, but do as little as possible cosmetically if the original finish remains.

Thanks guy's I intend to remove the grime also change the screw-on socket for a jack, as for the paint well it will polish up but the slight chips will be left alone, I am stringing up soon so will know more then
back neck C6, front E11 I think, happy to say it has the raised front as well, just the coolest looking thing, my GB S-8 walnut will be feeling neglected for a while

[Nate Hofer]

Keep it old! those things look so tough. Referbs never look quite right IMHO.