Found on multitools.org:
In response to a Victorinox Cadillac that has a rusting/corroding St. Christopher shield:
Pretty sure this is the breakdown of the cheaper CAB plastic of the Elinox knives from the 60s (yeah, I know the Cadillac is a Victoria knife, but they use the same scales as the Elinox Motorist. The corrosion on the inlay is from acetic acid coming out of the scales. THis looks fairly mild, but the acid WILL etch away the aluminum liners and corrode the nickel silver inlays.
First step is to neutralize the acid. I like to use a baking soda paste or submerge in a baking soda solution. Luke warm water at most - the reaction speeds up with heat and UV according to what I've read. I do know for sure that cleaning some knives in a hot (120-130 F) ultrasonic bath has triggered a reaction that led to complete scale destruction in about 5 years.
Next, keep this is a place where it can breath and the acetic acid can dissipate. You don't want it in a sealed container alone and most definitely not with other knives - the acid will attack them as well. Most recommendations are to keep these knives away from heat, humidity, and UV.
