Red reedplates!

[Ffingers]

But the reeds themselves are still exposed steel, aren’t they?

Indeed, but it is the older kinds of aluminium which suffer from corrosion from airborne salt much more so than treated steel reeds..
Anyway, it was just a thought

 

[Dingo40]

Well spotted, Scuromondo!

 

[Ventura]

very few accordion makers were capable of rustproof steel reeds
as stainless is generally too brittle for spring steel use
unless absolutely perfectly tempered as Gola and Scandalli demonstrated

 

[Chickers]

Another thought on the red reed plates.
"If" they are aluminum---anodizing aluminum not only prevents corrosion, but also provides a surface hardness. Depending on the
anodizing process, the depth of the hardness can vary. In addition, anodizing aluminum also provides a smoother finish.
Just some thoughts.
CHICKERS

 

[Gonk]

Hi Chickers, yes, they're aluminum -- and I wonder if that's the rationale! Smoother could certainly be better with regard to gap tolerances.

 

[Chickers]

Those reeds certainly are interesting. I like the red color for sure.
Good luck with your project.