New Improved info??

[CaerMooman]

Hi all,
I recently bought this New Improved. It is stamped made in England - but has a steel case with made in Canada on the cushion ... was this typical or have I a mixed set?
Also the serial number on the handle says Pat - 133963 - 1917. Is the 1917 the year it was made or merely a patent year?
Any info would be greatly appreciated.

 

[romsitsa]

Hello, as far as I know British serials are not documented, but given the low serial I'd say it's most likely from the first year of production. 1921, if New improved production started in England that year. 1917 is the year when the patent was granted in England.
For the case, it could be matching. While razors were made locally, cases were often supplied by other factories, these are usually stamped case made in ...

 

[CaerMooman]

Thank you very much for that. Wow .. possibly 100 years old

 

[CaerMooman]

The silver plate is worn thin on part of the handle. But top cap is near perfect, and inside the tin things look ok; I am unsure if its all original because the cushion material with logo on looks very worn, whilst the material elsewhere looks bright and clean; certainly not 100 years old.
Has anyone used one of these? I read they are quite aggressive??
I intend giving it a go on the weekend with a full 7 days growth to test it.

I think this pretty much completes my collection of vintage Gillettes - I have been after one of these beauties at the right price for quite some time (£40 paid)

 

[romsitsa]

Hello, the case belongs to a Single ring, the lining of the sides are later replacements, original was silk, like the top panel.
New improveds are not aggressive, imho, more direct than later Gillettes but still mild and efficient.

 

[CaerMooman]

Thank you.