Überstationmeister posted:It is less than black-and-white...
Generally (and very broadly), if it has all original parts authentic to the piece (save things like brushes and light bulbs or minor parts), or has been assembled from entirely correct original parts, and has no new paint or touch-ups, it would be considered original since there is no practical way to tell the difference. This naturally includes any piece that has had general maintenance. The "C" TCA standards cover the condition of these pieces (note that they are based on appearance, not function). The prices will vary with this overall condition.
Restored/refinished returns the piece to mint appearance and usually includes re-painting/re-plating, with the "R" TCA standards covering the quality of the restoration. This is where replacement of major parts (including wiring) with non-original resides as well. Price varies with quality of restoration and level of replacement parts. Non-factory variations or fantasy assemblages of parts would probably reside here too ("non-professional restoration").
Arguably, rebuilt/reconditioned returns the piece to optimum operational qualities not covered by the TCA standards directly, such as new e-unit, armature/field, wheels/bearings and mitigation of Zincpest (via any means other than part replacement). Price is usually comparable to condition, but generally lower than an all-original of the same condition.
Overall, honesty between buyer and seller is important. In my experience, sellers often say that the piece was "completely gone over" without committing themselves to what they actually did unless it is completely obvious (e.g. wrong color, reproduction parts, new wheels, new wiring). However, I have never had even one seller tell me if a whistle or horn works, so I guess they never "go over" those
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