Great question! I like odd examples of machines like a specially decorated VV-XI or mahogany Standard. I had a nice maroon Gem D in my collection. But when I had the opportunity to buy another D Gem I noticed that it had maroon paint over its original black finish. Both the horn and machine body have little blemishes where black shows through. I have no doubts about it being original. The vast majority of maroon Gems and machine horns have an iridescent look. Mine looks different because its maroon over black. I think it's interesting. Has anyone else seen a maroon over black Model D Gem?Are all of the D's maroon? I was just wanting a black combination Gem.
Jerry Blais