Also, my buddy recently had his Pre-Model 29 refinished at the S&W factory for $225. He opted for the standard blue. I am thinking, if I get the price down and buy this gun, of sending it to Smith and having them re-do the red ramp insert and refinish in their Bright Blue.

My thinking is that there is minimal collector value as is, and I would want is to look good in my collection (which has some, but not many, mediocre condition shooters).

Any thoughts on this course of action?