Seeking advice on restoring an old Colt 1908

[pfair]

Posted this in another section on the forum, but thought this might be a good place for it as well. 

Greetings from Nashville! I recently found my grandmothers Colt 1908 that was given to me by father a number of years ago when I turned 21. I am considering looking into the process of getting it refinished/restored back to its original condition. Is this something that would be crazy to do? I'm not looking to sell it and plan on keeping it as an heirloom to pass down, but wanted some feedback from the forum to see what my options might be.

Here is a quick photo. You can see the finish appears corroded and the pearl grips could use some love as well. 

Thank you in advance for looking and your input!

Edited January 29, 2023 by pfair

[No_0ne]

The general rule of thumb in the collector forums that I frequent is that any restoration destroys most, if not all the collectability.  I'm certainly no expert in Colt pistols, and maybe in that world restoration is looked on more favorably, but my advice is always "don't" if you want to preserve the historicity and collectability of a gun.   Be aware that any refinishing is going to leave telltale signs, markings won't be as crisp for one.  In that sense, it will never be in "original condition" again, if by that you mean looking like it did when new.  Essentially, it's in its "original condition" now, as its current condition is original to the treatment and use of the pistol. .Another thing to consider, what's precious to you in terms of family ownership may not necessarily follow in future generations, you wouldn't be the first to find that younger members of the family don't share your appreciation of it as an "heirloom".  Having said all that, it's your gun and you're of course free to do what you will with it ...