Advice for a 1997 Next Mutation Bust

[Panda Khan]

I did some searching on the forum for info about this bust but couldn't really find anything that helped me out.

I just got this on eBay the other day, some of you might have seen it. It had a couple of watchers.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/221142378669?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

First of all, I don't know if I got a good deal. I know they don't come around often. I searched high and low on here and Google but couldn't find what they usually go for...

This one is obviously not in perfect shape and might need some work. My question is should I leave it as is or should I make some effort and try to restore it? I've seen some repainted A.C. Farley busts that look fantastic and might be interested in doing that or just getting it back to what it looked like originally.

Thanks.

[Powder]

I'd leave it as is personally. It's in well enough shape for now.

[Panda Khan]

Came in the mail today. The most obvious damage is at the base and the gold plate. Other than that it looks pretty good. Just needs a little dusting.

[Panda Khan]

What a difference a couple days make.

I was going to leave this bust "as is" but the stench it was giving off was unbearable. I'm assuming it was the old paint. I could smell it from at least 6-7 feet away. That's not an exaggeration. I was also worried it might be a lead based paint.

Rather than go for a custom look, I tried to get it as close to what it looked like originally. I'm sure the color is off since I didn't have any references to go by other than the finish that was on it when I got it, but I am pleased with the result.

Mods, if this belongs in the Custom section, please move it there. I didn't think this would become a DIY project. I didn't think it warranted another thread.


Here's how I got it:
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l304/hottykarate/030-1.jpg

I used Easy Off Oven Cleaner and a wire brush to strip it:
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l304/hottykarate/040.jpg

I then rubbed it down in white vinegar. This neutralized the Easy Off and also deodorized it believe it or not.

Next I used spackling paste to cover the cracks at the bottom. Once that was dry I shot it with white primer:
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l304/hottykarate/046.jpg

After that, I shot it with dark bronze that had a hammered finish:
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l304/hottykarate/057.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l304/hottykarate/068.jpg
http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l304/hottykarate/072.jpg
I shot it with a clear coat afterwards.

I am going to polish the gold plate and replace the velvet underneath. After that I will be finished.

Other than the fresh paint, the smell is now gone. I'm confident the old paint was source of the awful smell.

[Powder]

Wowwwwwwwwwwwwww. I am really envious. It was cool before but it's SUCH a beauty now. You did an amazing job refurbishing it. Seriously. Nice work.

[Navin Johnson]

Nice job, I like the way it turned out.

[drewizzle88]

Wow thats dope man...really looks great now!

[Panda Khan]

Thanks everyone for the comments :D