> For example, the paradox of Grandfather’s axe where the handle and the blade have long been replaced

For a pop-culture reference, probably known mostly in the UK, see "Trigger's Broom".

The character Trigger is a street sweeper and is given an award by the council for using the same broom for 20 years. Later he reveals the trick to good broom maintenance is to replace parts when they start to go, and says it has had 17 new heads and 14 new handles.