Restorations are a touchy subject for many people. When it is decided to restore an instrument it is first completely dismantled, including the solder joints. All dents, etching, and scratches, within reason, are removed from the instrument.
The instrument is reassembled placing as little pressure as possible on the horn so as not to affect its sound. The horn is then buffed to a high gloss and finished in raw brass, lacquer, silver plate, or gold plate. If you should have any questions on whether or not to restore your instrument to its original condition feel free to contact the shop. I am currently not taking in any full restoration jobs. This will allow me to focus on finishing my own complete double horn.