Unmarked repo's, drilled signs, a car that's been in a wreck, a house with a poor foundation - it all boils down to being an educated buyer - AND, of course, dealing with an honest, reputable seller you trust. Do your homework, ask questions, closely inspect the product - these are all basics of ANY smart purchase!
That said, those who misrepresent a drilled sign as an authentic original porcelain neon sign are DEAD WRONG in my book, we can at least agree on that I believe Gulfiend?
What I don't understand is why you and many others on this site don't realize (or accept) that not every collector of petroliana is a complete stickler for 100% originality like yourself??
I like and buy original neon signs - but know many people who buy neons don't care if they are original. They want the look - and not the 5 figure price tag to go with it. Or perhaps their favorite sign that was never made in a neon version. They may buy a repop, or a lower priced original sign that has been neoned. Who am I to judge that this should be unacceptable for them, and that they have purchased a "ruined" sign? Don't understand your logic there, guess we'll just agree to disagree.
I'm not trying to sell you anything, other than perhaps the concept of a more open mind to other's collecting tastes/styles - but everyone has their own opinions.
