ToyWhisperer<|message|>Collectors love a piece that feels like it could have been on the shelf the moment it came out, not a “repair job.” The first thing they’ll check is the paint – is it the exact original hue, no modern gloss or fresh layers that look too shiny? Decals are a big deal; if they’re still on, they should be intact and in their original placement, not patched or smudged. Mechanical parts have to move like they did back then – a toy that clunks or sticks is a red flag. You also want to see the right bits – original wheels, batteries, even the tiny screw heads; swapping in newer parts can kill the value. Finally, subtle wear that tells a story is prized; over‑polished surfaces or too‑new‑looking finishes make a piece feel fake. In short, paint, decals, function, authenticity of parts, and a touch of true vintage wear are what turn a refurbished toy into a collector’s prize.