Thread: How to clean up Art Deco razor case?

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.

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.

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.

Originally Posted by 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.

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

Originally Posted by 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.

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

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.

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

[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

+ 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?