Scratches & nicks

[scarhead]

I'm curious to see what people think of scratches, nicks and other damage to their expensive items. For some reason I am blessed with dropping my nice stuff and never dropping the more inexpensive things.

At first, I was really upset with the damage, but my brother told me once that it's like a birthmark or scar and they add character. I'm not really into reselling my things, so I'm not really concerned with the loss in value.

Here are too quick examples. I was given a bordeaux Montblanc LeGrande rollerball by my sister. I had transferred positions at work (more or less a promotion) and brought the MB with me. When I got out of the car in the parking garage I dropped my keys and when I bent over to pick them up the pen fell from my pocket. Of course, it landed right on top just off center leaving a dent. I guess I'm lucky that the whole pen didn't crack or shatter. The second event was with a new Dunhill gold lighter that I have. I was walking out to the parking lot with a co-worker and went to light her cigarette. She commented on what a beautiful lighter it was after I had put it in my pocket. I reached into my pocket, pulled it out and dropped it on the pavement leaving a hefty dent.

I guess my brother does have a point because I remember the set of circumstances surrounding the "scar."

I'm curious as to what others think and would like to hear similar stories.

[2careless]

Well, twice I bought a new car, I drove it on the highway, and saw a stone chipped it right in front of my eyes - once one day after getting it, and another 1 week after getting the car. One was a Volvo V70, the other was a MB B200.
I think these 2 chips have affected my eyesight now...

[ParisDakarBmw]

Of course the newer it looks the better it is, but things happen. I wouldn't worry too much, but try to have them repaired if possible. The first dings always hurt the most!

[Lion]

I guess if you get scratches and dents it shows that you have been using your toys and that they are not just for show!!!
The bruises just show they are gently being used.....

[Shangas]

Scratches and dents are where once smiles hath been,
Thou hast nay enjoyed it, if 'tis still straight and clean.

AKA...

What's the point of buying something if you don't use it?

A lot of the stuff I own is scratched or dented in some way, mostly because a lot of the stuff I own is second-hand. That stuff doesn't bother me much, but I still do try and take very good care of my stuff and I'd be upset if it was scratched or dented through my own idiocy.

On the other hand, my dad swaddles every single expensive thing that he owns in cotton-wool and barely uses it.

[daveathall]

I use my pens and watches, I would much rather their "character" be described as LNIB rather than scratched...........but if one uses ones possessions they can and do become slightly damaged, Ce la vie.

[gelshocker]

The alternative is to swap using your nice stuff with your inexpensive stuff and be blessed the other way round.

I guess it would also depend on what circumstances the dent/flaw was created. Say, if it was dropped in anger or your would rather forget about the unfortunate insignificant incident, I would have it polished out asap.

I don't mind the dents and such, as long as I did it. Not some SOB watchmaker raping the screws on my bracelet. Sorry I'm normally a calm person. Cheers!

[JBat]

I try to take care of my things, watches, pens, etc, but like Shangas said, what is the point of purchasing these things if you aren't going to use them as they are intended to be used. I wear a mechanical watch every day, and since I've gotten into FP's I use one of those every day too. Seems a waste to worry so much about dings and scratches that you don't use them. Like we say around the watch forums, they add character.

[Lol-x]

Surely there must be some stuff available and/or some technique that can restore an 'as new' finish on that Black/bordeaux precious resin, as it is known?

[sunburst]

Originally Posted by Lol-x

Surely there must be some stuff available and/or some technique that can restore an 'as new' finish on that Black/bordeaux precious resin, as it is known?

I have been using Eagle 1 Non-abrasive Plastic polish with great result.
This is the same item that I have been using on automobile instrument panel, motorcycle shield
and helmet shield etc.
It will not remove any scratch that can be felt with finger nails but it does a great job
on micro scratches on pens including MBs.
According to the instruction it fills scrathces and pores producing a deep lustrous shine.

[Lion]

Joji, I haven't use this product yet even though I have some but I've heard that Renaissance Wax works very well on fountain pens and others as well!!!

[sunburst]

Originally Posted by Lion

Joji, I haven't use this product yet even though I have some but I've heard that Renaissance Wax works very well on fountain pens and others as well!!!

Leo, the only reaosn I have been using Eagle 1 is becasue I still have so much left over
(Eagle 1 cleaning/maintenance kit was given to me by an auto dealer with the purchase of
Saleen Mustang in 1990).
I too have heard that Renaissance Wax works well but have not had an opportunity to give it a try yet.

[Lol-x]

So what you guys are saying is 'car wax' is the product?

[Lion]

Steve, Renaissance Wax is archive safe and can be used on many different items...

[sunburst]

Originally Posted by Lion

Steve, Renaissance Wax is archive safe and can be used on many different items...

Is Renaissance Wax a paste?

[Lion]

Joji, it looks like a wax to me but I guess it could also be called a paste...
You only need to use a small amount applied with a soft cloth and then buff gently!!!

[daveathall]

Ive used Rennaissance wax on my pens, it is wonderful stuff.

All three have had a coat, the top one is over 13 years old.

[2careless]

Thanks guys. Learnt something new today

[rolio]

It all adds to character. There is a Japanese philosophy called Wabi-Sabi. The idea is that there is an appreciation for the used and worn; that things and people are transcient in nature; and that imperfection is perfection in its true state of being. At least my understanding of it. I love the used and worn. All my things have dents, scratches, abrasions, discolorations, etc. I love it that way...always have.

Ciao!

[RebreatherDiver]

I view my pens like my sport model watches. They are a tool, and if they are not showing use than the only tool is the user.

(although I have to say, Dave makes a good argument for wax with those photos)

[JBat]

Originally Posted by rolio

It all adds to character. There is a Japanese philosophy called Wabi-Sabi. The idea is that there is an appreciation for the used and worn; that things and people are transcient in nature; and that imperfection is perfection in its true state of being. At least my understanding of it. I love the used and worn. All my things have dents, scratches, abrasions, discolorations, etc. I love it that way...always have.

Ciao!

Well said.

[Lion]

I'm in agreement...I buy items to use them not to start a museum!!!