If it is silver? and I suspect it is, it may not be so much plated, as a silver "wash" similiar to what is done in gold to the inner works of some doubles - very thin would be a kind description. If one has natural gas for home use, heating etc. it won't take long to oxidize silver to "black" for some reason probably the inherint moisture. I don't have a Merck Index to find what all turns silver black, could be a lot of chemicals. Jag, I would be reluctant to leave on any type of slip-on due to the chemical retained by leather-isn't lye? (caustic soda) used in tanning leather and caustic residue could easily be present add a little moisture and bingo ruined finish. As far as rubber goes it breaks down with time and the resultant "brew" might be a good finish remover. --- John Can.
