I don't blame the owner for not wanting to deal with something he didn't even notice. But with all of the good work he's having you do, eventually he will regret not going ahead and having you fix it properly. Even if its not until he or his family sells it, it would still be better to deal with it now. Perhaps after it sinks in for a few days ask him again. In terms of selling (or even appraising its value, which is what I do professionally) the value of the car will essentially be diminished the cost of redoing the front end and painting to match or repainting. At any rate, thanks for sharing and good luck
Tom Breske
Vintage Viewpoint LLC
Seattle, WA