It's a pain. Based on photo evidence I've seen, color wasn't invented until the fifties...
In my experience with aircraft esp., restorations are not reliable as a matter of fact. It all depends on who was in control, and what they knew and cared about.
Also a lot of the time they rely on volunteers, donations, including hardware and paint, and generally do their best but have to make compromises.
For good examples of what not to do, take a look online at the Aberdeen tanks that have been relocated to Fort Hood.