Wow, my WW#8 has none of its gilding left. I really enjoyed seeing the decorations that are left on your machine. I'm sure I'll return to this thread in the future to admire them again. If it were my machine, I would leave it alone. I like to see the wear on a well used and loved machine (JMHO). It is so cool that you have so much of the decorations remaining. But, if you decide to start from scratch I am sure it will be lovely. I look forward to seeing this machine's restoration.