I recently bought this set of razors, purely because of it's connection to Aberdeen in Scotland. The photos of the advert was not clear enough for me to be able to tell it is ivory, but when they arrived, it was clear they are. Usually when you see ivory scales, especially sets, there are cracks, or broken off ends on the scales. These are in perfect condition, with a rich patina that I have no inclination of changing. I think one of the reasons they are not cracked is because they are very loosely pinned, with the blade falling out freely when turned upside down. Not safe, they are an accident waiting to happen.
The razors are in fair condition, considering they are about 130 years old, but unfortunately the rust around the pins is severe enough that it leaves me no option other than to remove the scales to be able to give it a proper clean.
Nr.1 Razor is clearly a replacement from the same maker as the spine detail is different from the others.
I am, to say the least, apprehensive about the prospect. I have enough experience to be fairly sure I can do it without damage, if I take my time and are VERY careful. There is no way I will trust someone else to do it.
Here are the questions to my knowledgeable B&B friends:
1) Why do ivory scales get pinned without collars? Doesn't make sense to me, surely a collar will prevent the pin from mushrooming inside the ivory reducing the risk of wedging it apart and cracking.
2) Is it normal for ivory scales to be pinned so loosely?
3) I intend using the razors regularly, I don't own showpieces, I use all my razors. Seeing that the scales are in perfect condition, will it not be sensible to remove the ivory and replace them with something less fragile? Of course they will be stored carefully for in case I want to sell them at some point, and I can offer them as an option to a future buyer.
Any advice will be appreciated.