public boolean equals(Object obj) {
        if (obj == this) {
            return true;
        }
        if (!(obj instanceof SymbolAxis)) {
            return false;
        }
        SymbolAxis that = (SymbolAxis) obj;
        if (!this.symbols.equals(that.symbols)) {
            return false;
        }
        if (this.gridBandsVisible != that.gridBandsVisible) {
            return false;
        }
        if (!PaintUtilities.equal(this.gridBandPaint, that.gridBandPaint)) {
            return false;
        }
        if (!PaintUtilities.equal(this.gridBandAlternatePaint, 
                that.gridBandAlternatePaint)) {
            return false;
        }
        return super.equals(obj);