Hello All,
I bought my first machine a little over three years ago which was a totally restored Mills 21. It is a beautiful machine and the restoration is top notch. Without shipping it was about $2,600. For myself that was a lot to pay but I had wanted one of these machines for over ten years.
As I have learned more about the hobby I was considering another machine, this time an original. Fortunately my tastes aren't that expensive and I like the look of High Tops so I managed to find this Blue Bell on Craig's List for $1,000. I particularly liked this color scheme too which helped. Everything is working and original on this machine except the cash box. Being an original, this machine has "character" with it's blemishes, and nicks in the paint. I enjoy the feel of this machine as it's played which is much softer than the restored one. Perhaps that's from a LOT of use.
With what I know now I would definitely seek out an original machine over a restoration or one that I could work on myself. From a lot of the reading on this site, it seems that many collectors are of the same mindset.
Anyway, I was wanting some input regarding the machines. Will the restored machine "hold it's value" at what I paid for it or would I never be able to regain what I paid for it to the dealer? As for the other, I think I could probably get back what I paid for it.
I don't plan on selling either anytime soon but I was curious.
Any thoughts?