Truth be told if it isn't a "signature" item(ie, Patton's sidearm, etc) then I'd prefer a weapon to look good and to function perfectly. I like to take my stuff to the range and let it do what it was made to do...make little pieces of metal go real fast!
I think I understand your point of view. I'm guessing you consider yourself a shooter and firearms are tools for shooting. Nothing wrong with that, especially considering your occupation.
I do try to educate about the collectible nature of firearms in a respectful manner, since I'm basically a purist collector. If you already knew you were decreasing the resale value by refinishing it then my comment was unnecessary, but I really don't know you well enough to determine if you were aware of that reality
They aren't uncommon revolvers, so not a big tragedy, just providing information.
Like I said before, it looks really nice with a clean smooth finish, though bluing would be correct for an early 20th Century Colt. If it has good solid lock-up and a sharply rifled barrel it'll probably be good for another 100 years of use.
Here is one site for some reasonably priced reproduction grips for your PPS. I'm sure there are other sources.
https://www.triplek.com/product/colt-police-positive-special-c-type-grips/