Congratulations on getting your new machine. They are so much fun. I contemplated buying a FW that was already repainted - they are SO pretty. But like your husband I like the feeling of the age and history it holds. Also, I am not sure if i would use it if it were too pretty. This may sound funny but I will oil it and clean it a bit but for serious work it goes to my favorite repair shop because it's the smell of the oil and grease that does me in. I am impressed you can and are willing to do it yourself.