I think the best prices acheived on classic cars and indeed exotica are those paid for what is termed 'sympathetic' restoration. Retaining most of the originality where possible. This then gives the feeling to the owner , driver, that she or he is indeed involved with something that is classic and with history rather than a new old car. With cars and motorcycles for that matter, I think it's to do with interiors and paint. Mechanicals are what they are, whether it be cars, bikes or cameras. Replace or rebuild that which is worn out but with original items not pattern. For me, I'd far rather have say a 911 2.7 RS with original interior and paint ex factory, smelling and feeling of 35 yr history than a freshly painted one. Same with say black paint Leica's. I think the more expensive ones are worth more because of this originality, even if the internals have been changed. I think if you can see it then it should be original, prob why old shutter curtains in certain Leica's are not changed.
It's the same with classic watches. Example, a Submariner that's 20-30 yrs old but with an original bezel and dial, even if the internals have been repaired is worth far more than one which has had a new bezel and dial fitted.
