I don't think it would've helped much at the time. IIRC, the old bridge seemed to have the strings seated a little further in than normal wraparounds, and the break angle was pretty severe. It was probably more down to me having a really heavyhanded technique at the time anyway, to be honest.
Also, it used to p!ss me off a little digging holes in the edge of my hand when palm muting. Not even sure I have the original tailpiece here anymore (have a feeling I fitted it as a tailpiece to a Les Paul copy I refurbished on the cheap), and I certainly haven't got the hardware to fit, since I cut both and joined them together.
BTW woold, be careful when cleaning those things. Put too much effort into it, and the satin finish soon ends up clear gloss. However, I prefer the clear gloss look, since the older Gordon Smith's were like that originally. (Also fitted tulip Kluson replica's to mine to give it an earlier, more Les Paul-like vibe).
If you do want to "gloss it up", a little T-cut and a piece of rag and a few minutes is all it takes.