[BrunoEss]

Hello, would anyone be able to confirm this box/set of papers/target/etc as correct to an original 1965 package?

Colt Python blue 1965 LNIB w 1st gen box, rare. : Revolvers at GunBroker.com

I noticed the seller bought this pistol

Colt Python 357 mag in original box VERY NICE : Revolvers at GunBroker.com

and a manual

Colt Python Manual 1950's to 1970's (No Date) : Revolvers at GunBroker.com

both about a month ago so wondering if this auction is a frankenstein or if the paperwork looks to be correct and original to the gun. Box type (what is that red stripe on the top though?) and serial look to be correct to the year... Many thanks

 

[eagleeye]

looks like he cleaned it up and maybe some wax job on it also the stocks do not look the same.
kinda fishy to me
the python experts will chime in soon

 

[BigRix]

The red "stripe" is a dymo label. Can't see what it says in either ad.

Looks like a nice gun and he cleaned it up and took some better pictures of it.

Definitely added the repop manual.

The box looks right to me at first glance but the repo guys are getting better.

I see nothing wrong with adding value to a gun by cleaning it up and taking better pics. Plenty of guys do that. Myself included.

 

[MtnSpur]

The test target is numbered the same in both auctions so that's a giveaway. Cosmetically it looks like the gun has been spruced up to look it's best and better pictures taken to sell along with the addition of a manual and assorted paperwork. The seller has about another 600 or so (shipping, etc) to break even and 2 days to go. Definitely added items to the package but will it fool everyone or just one person? We'll see.

 

[gunbroke]

As you have already correctly pointed out. The auction is for a used with box 1965 Python that a seller picked up and is now attempting to pass off as LNIB. There's a reason all his pictures are with the cylinder in frame and he does not specify a return policy. The blue loss around the circumference of each chamber on the back of the cylinder from the 6/12/13 auction indicates the revolver has seen quite a few rounds even though he states "by all appearances was unfired by the previous owner" .

To answer your questions:
Box, test target, and revolver are original and correct for 1965 vintage.

The "red stripe" is an old label made by one of those old punch wheel label maker guns, probably put there by the original owner back in the 60's or 70's. It is not uncommon for the boxes of vintage revolvers to be marked with names, addresses, and dates by their original owners.

The paperwork (other than the test target) is either reproduction or from later production. 1965 pythons did not come with the manual (all be it a reproduction) pictured. Also, the authorized service stations and yellow warranty registration card are from 80's production. The revolver came with a Form No. W-100 warranty registration card.

The stocks were also R&R'ed as you pointed out. They are a later 60's vintage based on the finish, but it really has no impact on the value as they are period correct. Probably just an attempt by the seller to make the revolver look more "LNIB". There's a fine line between deception and showcasing your item in the best possible light. This seller's listing is well into the former IMHO.

 

[BigRix]

I missed the fact that he is now grading it higher than it should be.

That is going a little too far in my book.

Bordering on the deceptive now.

 

[BrunoEss]

oh well, the search continues...

thanks everyone for your time and attention, you are a real asset to the Colt community (esp for noobs like me)

 

[weagle99]

If I were a potential buyer of this gun (and I'm not) I would ask the seller why the ejector rod is showing so much bluing wear if the gun is supposedly unfired.

Of course, he could be playing word games. 'Unfired by previous owner is not the same as 'unfired.'