I was cleaning a razor and I noticed some stuff that makes me wonder about possible outgassing on celluloid scales.

When I finished buffing out the blade what I thought was just tarnish turned out to be textured pitting, heavily where the blade rests into the scales. As I was cleaning it there was a lot of evidence of rust at the pivot, inside the scales.

I've already cleaned it but you can see it at: (large image files)

http://www.procis.net/Razors/Boker2

I know the scales are celluloid. I started gently sanding out some scratches in them with 2000 grit paper and that camphor smell came on strong and loud.

I'm tempted to remove the scales and look at the metal that can't be reached otherwise to see how rusted it looks.

Anyone think the pitting pattern on this is indicative of outgassing?

Thanks.

Glen F