How to clean up Art Deco razor case?

[randydance062449]

Hey guys,

I need some suggestions on how to clean up this Art Deco style Gem Razor case.
Buffing, Maas etc ?? All suggestions appreciated.
BTW, this one is not for sale.

[Dzanda]

Aren't those made of celluloid, like the scales on so many razors? I have zero restoration experience, but I'd guess that whatever works on celluloid scales should work on that beauty...assuming that it really is celluloid.

[MattCB]

I would guess Bakelite. I have a smaller clamshell box the exact same color. If you use a polishing compound on it you can pull out a lot of residue (nicotine, tar, smoke, ect..) I believe that GEM called thier Bakelite brand Marbelite or something similar.

[Dzanda]

I would guess Bakelite. I have a smaller clamshell box the exact same color. If you use a polishing compound on it you can pull out a lot of residue (nicotine, tar, smoke, ect..) I believe that GEM called thier Bakelite brand Marbelite or something similar.

And that's a perfect example of why I spend so much time here: I learn something every day!

[randydance062449]

I would guess Bakelite. I have a smaller clamshell box the exact same color. If you use a polishing compound on it you can pull out a lot of residue (nicotine, tar, smoke, ect..) I believe that GEM called thier Bakelite brand Marbelite or something similar.

It does have a marble type pattern to it! Thanks!

[Hirlau]

i would start with some mild dish soap , just to remove surface olis & dirt in the creases.
then I would apply some of this to a small area, rub it in as directed & remove with a soft cotton rag. I have used this product before on many plastics, & some scales. It give a beautiful shine.
Test it on a small area first. Available at Wal Mart, I believe.

[pixelfixed]

Bakelite for sure,would not touch it with anything if mine.

[BobH]

[QUOTE=Hirlau;1339487]i would start with some mild dish soap , just to remove surface olis & dirt in the creases.
then I would apply some of this to a small area, rub it in as directed 7 remove with a soft cotton rag. I have used this product before on many plastics, & some scales. I give a beautiful shine.
Test it on a small area first. Available at Wal Mart, I believe.

Had an old Bakelite case lying around and I did something similar to what Hirlau did. Just a wash with a mild detergent and a polish with an automotive lens cleaner. That did not seem to harm it any. Testing on a small unseen area first is always a good idea too.

Bob

[GaryG]

+ to the above. Start on the bottom with whatever you chose. I have a couple of those and believe they are bakelite, which I have read is a mite touchy about cleaning methods. GEM made those in several colors, I've green, the maroon shown in the OP, an ivory, a brown, can't find the pic I had . I think that they only bore the Micromatic line, but who knows?