Hi Achim,
You are exactly correct. Gernold advised me at the time that an open checkbook restoration on an 230SL was not very wise from a financial standpoint. I understood this well, however, my thought was that since I was never going to sell it did not matter. During the many months Gernold had the car we talked frequently and he told me how wonderful it was to work on an early 230SL. We never had a single disagreement. From day one I wanted him to make the car the very best he could. On one of his trips to Germany he sourced the exact 970 dark grey fabric top material and brought it back with him. We tried getting it in the US but could not find anything even close in color to a known 970 sample. That is just one example of his dedication to authenticity and correctness. He is simply a remarkable mechanic and a pleasure to work with.
Thank you to you (and Mike Hughes) for the welcome back to the Group. For the past 10 years or so I always maintained my full membership but became very inactive soon after Gernold finished the car and sent it back to me. I put a cover over it and stored it in the corner of my garage, driving it very infrequently. Taking it to that car show last week was kind of like a waking up after a long sleep for me and the car. In all honesty, I fell into that common trap of letting a job (that I can admit now I absolutely despised) consume me. I made a huge mistake. Now, ten years older, at least I learned a lesson: Make time for yourself, your family, and your fun hobbies (ie your Pagoda). That is all that really matters. Glad to be back.
Rich
