I know it's just an axe, but, I believe it's a little more complicated than "just an axe". Full disclosure: my frame of reference is as a user, not a collector, and as an unabashed old tool snob
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Basically, I prefer old tools restored to as close to original condition as possible, then passed on to people who will continue to use them as intended. I believe that the folks who made them knew what they were doing, and very few of us are in a position to "improve" on these time-tested tools. I wish he'd restore them, re-handle as necessary with appropriate high quality hardwoods, tune them up, and sell them to users.
Buffing a tool to a gloss like that ruins them functionally, and therefore aesthetically as well, IMO. I also wonder if some of those handle designs are even useable, with wierdly oriented "grain" direction and sharp points near the swell knob on the end, and so on. I'm not even gonna talk about that wavy hammer handle.
These are display pieces, not meant for use. It seems the guys got some skills, and I do appreciate the entrepeneurship. But, the added-value here is in appearance, not function. While some may appreciate that, I cringe at the idea that a fine old axe or hammer just got neutered and is now just a wall hanger. Not pretty.
Considering that there's a finite supply of old tools, every one taken out of circulation diminishes the pool, and reduces the opportunity for people to use and appreciate them. I thnk we lose a little bit of our heritage, our history, when that happens, and get even further disconnected in a world that could more connections of that sort, not less.
The reality is there are lots and lots of really good woodworkers, artists who work in wood, and fine craftsmen of furniture and functional objects. But, the market for their products and services is highly competitive. Clearly this guy has created a niche for himself, and seems to have made it work. I'm just sorry it's at the expense of a non-renewable resource that I personally value quite a bit.
Does that answer your question?