I have two music-box related questions.  First, has anyone experienced
problems with a 15 1/2" Regina barely playing zinc discs?  That is, few
notes and no semblance of a tune?  We have a lone zinc disc that does
this while all of our other steel and plated-steel discs play fine.
This disc doesn't appear to have changed dimensionally from the rest.
Maybe the projections aren't deep enough?

Second, I'd like the group's input about having the case of such a
music box professionally restored.  The former owner said an appraiser
had told him not to refinish it, but I don't know whether that meant
"at home" or "at all."  I've read that a well-done, high-quality
restoration won't devalue a piece.

Ours could use some help but isn't terrible.  It has a number of what
appear to be cat-claw scratches on the lid, and a few nicks and scrapes
here and there.  There is no split or missing trim.  We didn't buy this
instrument as an investment; we intend to keep it the rest of our
lives.  It's in perfect playing condition and we'd like its appearance
to match, if that won't ruin its value as an antique.

I would draw my own conclusion but I see many such instruments
beautifully restored, and they seem to have no trouble finding buyers.
I'd appreciate anyone's thoughts on this.

Best Regards,
Joel Hoshaw