Thread: Replicating Intricate Scales or Maybe Restoration

My father, who is well aware of my interest in straight razors, recently came by after having unearthed an old razor that belonged to his grandfather. The blade itself is relatively simple 4/8, with just the United Special" brand and stamped "Guaranteed English Steel" and has some minor hone wear and one of the pivot washers is missing which makes the blade swing quite freely.

What is particularly striking, though, is the scales: they appear to be celluloid and are very slightly warped, but nothing that keeps the blade from closing and one of the scale tips on the pivot end is broken or ground off; one side of the scales is fairly plain but the other has a really wonderful intricate design to it that I've never seen before and love. What I'm wondering is this:

1) Is it possible to have the scale replicated (e.g., a mold made and new identical resin scales poured, or even the engraving mirrored so that two complimentary scales could be created)? Is there anyone for hire who does this sort of thing?

2) I have some limited experience restoring other razors, but given the providence of this and the familial history of it I'm a little hesitant to take this on. The restoration (at a glance) doesn't appear complicated: just replace the washer in the scale and clean up the blade, MAYBE attempt to steam the scales straight and flat again. What do people think? Would this be a good candidate to have sent away?

Obviously I know that, at the end of the day, I'm the only one who can decide if it's worth it for me or not, but I'm very interested to hear people's opinions and thoughts on this very cool razor.

Kind regards,
Paul