I saw the VX-4 F-14 Tomcat at George AFB in late '87. It was painted gloss black and was highly polished. When standing close, you could see your reflection in it. The leading edge of the wings were natural metal and was polished to a very high shine. It was the cleanest aircraft I ever saw. Even the AB eyelids were polished.
Berny
Phormer Phantom Phixer
On the bench
TF-102A Delta Dagger, 32nd FIS, 54-1370, 1/48 scale. Monogram Pro Modeler with C&H conversion.
Revell F-4E Phantom II 33rd TFW, 58th TFS, 69-260, 1/32 scale.
Tamiya F-4D Phantom II, 13th TFS, 66-8711, 1/32 scale. F-4 Phantom Group Build.