The ethical gray area of parting out complete typewriters for restoration

I've noticed a surge in online auctions where vintage typewriters in decent condition are listed solely for their components. It's fantastic that this provides accessible parts for our restoration projects, keeping these machines ticking! However, I can't shake the feeling that we're sacrificing historical integrity when a functional piece is dismantled. Last week, I almost purchased a ribbon spool from a 1930s Royal being parted out, but I paused, torn between my need and the moral cost. Is the convenience worth the potential loss of another complete machine from the collective history we cherish?