Ives wheels

The only ones I've seen on cars (that I believe) were painted by the factory are all black, flange and all.  This is typically on cars from the late teens.  In the early 1920's, the wheels are left shiny tinplate and stay that way until the end.

I've seen some painted colors by previous owners, but it never quite matches any Ives original paint.

That being said, some of the early cast iron locomotives came with tin pilot wheels that were painted...usually red to match the trim of the loco.

http://ivestrains.org/CD/O_Gau...62%20%20Parlor%20Car

If you're going to repaint parts of the car, do what makes you happy.  Wheels can always be swapped out if you decide you don't like them painted someday.