Reply by Loren

I think how it works is the serious collectors are skeptical of
“restoration” work and many prefer to do cleaning themselves.

There is apparently money to be made by making old tools all
shiny to appeal to gift buyers who then pass the shiny old
tools onto loved ones.

I’ve made a few bucks here and there buying and selling old
tools. I seldom do much more than get the rust off. I leave
the brown patina on planes for example. In any case, the
only way I’ve come out ahead is by buying the tools at
considerably below market value. There isn’t a stable supply
of such bargains in most areas… but if you learn your values
you can certainly make some extra green to buy tools you
do want for your own use.