[Hydroglen]

Well it depends on the meaning of "collectors are unaware of them". In
Brians' case, he keeps his cars more or less hidden. Only those of us who
have visited him, and wandered around the garden are aware of his
treasures. I don't think he advertises, or if he does, not outside of
Bristol circles.
I have never restored a car that when finished would be worth less, than the
money I had invested in it.
In my mind, the idea is to save something rare and collectible wilst
protecting your financial investment. I do much of my own work and have
good connections in areas that I can't do. This is part of the fun and keeps
costs in line with the end value.
I can see were there are many collectors ( having to use restoration shops)
who see little point in investing in a car that will be cost them
substantially more than the end market value. Why place yourself in an
"upside down" position? At the end, the only one who gained was the
restoration shop. It is often cheaper to buy a restored car that is being
sold at a price that reflects market conditions and not the actual
investment costs of a misguided owner / collector.
This is particularly true in the current economy and likey to remain so in
the forseable future.

Dorien Berteletti