Restore / replace original decals on 1941 delta drill press?

[CADjockey]

Good Evening!
I have a 1941 Delta drill press (10 050) that I am cleaning and if need be, restoring back to original condition. My question is where is the line between acceptable original finish and the 'as new' condition?
The original decal is not at all perfect, but mostly readable.
The original paint has been stained darker by the oils, environment, and the atmosphere.

It functions fine, although the chuck was replaced several (≈35) years ago.

Here is the original decal. You can see the dark color of the paint around it.


Should I redo everything, or just clean it up and maintain the originality of the machine?

Thanks!

 

[d42jeep]

I did the latter on my 1945 model. I made an effort to just clean and maintain the original finishes. It is currently in my basement and runs great. It belonged to my granddaughter’s other grandpa and was gifted to me around Christmas ‘25.
-Don

 

[Jeff Ivers]

I am of the camp that believes you should do whatever pleases you. When I acquired a used drill press, I took it apart and thoroughly cleaned it and repainted the areas that I thought looked shabby. In my shop I like to have my equipment look well cared for. If you have a shop full of very old machines, you might want to leave them just as acquired.