I was delighted to find this thread. I thought I was the only person on earth to own one of these razors.
I just got mine a few days ago. My thoughts are similar but with a different perspective.
My head, just as yours, has several tiny "pits" and both ends have about a 1.5mm brass spot as if that is where it was held during plating. In fact, I am pretty sure that is exactly what it is since you have the same issue in the exact same spot. I would describe the finish as very mirror like other than these tiny flaws.
Here, however, is my positive perspective on this finish. It is the REASON I bought the razor. I loved the asthetics. It is a beautiful and "antique looking" razor that could be 100 years old, but with fabulous, modern weight, balance and design. Probably no one but me would EVER even notice these tiny "flaws" (and I do believe they are flaws that could be corrected by the manufacturer) But to me they make it the perfect blend of the look of the past and the function of modern technology. I personally find it adds character to the razor. The handle is "hand lathed" and perfect. Smooth, and perfectly balanced.
I STRONGLY agree that it is NOT a Merkur HD. I also agree that I actually like it better. It does have a slightly wider "blade to bar" spacing, and it just seems to feel perfect for me. I would consider my beard to be not to thick, but very tough. My skin is normal sensitivity. While I bought this razor more based on look and feel and weight, I was very pleasantly surprised with the shave and would highly recommend it for both beauty and functionality.
If you are in to perfect finish, buy something else. If you are more antique oriented or "artsy" you are likely to really enjoy this product. ANYONE should find it to be a great razor in terms of pure utility.
I just got mine a few days ago. My thoughts are similar but with a different perspective.
My head, just as yours, has several tiny "pits" and both ends have about a 1.5mm brass spot as if that is where it was held during plating. In fact, I am pretty sure that is exactly what it is since you have the same issue in the exact same spot. I would describe the finish as very mirror like other than these tiny flaws.
Here, however, is my positive perspective on this finish. It is the REASON I bought the razor. I loved the asthetics. It is a beautiful and "antique looking" razor that could be 100 years old, but with fabulous, modern weight, balance and design. Probably no one but me would EVER even notice these tiny "flaws" (and I do believe they are flaws that could be corrected by the manufacturer) But to me they make it the perfect blend of the look of the past and the function of modern technology. I personally find it adds character to the razor. The handle is "hand lathed" and perfect. Smooth, and perfectly balanced.
I STRONGLY agree that it is NOT a Merkur HD. I also agree that I actually like it better. It does have a slightly wider "blade to bar" spacing, and it just seems to feel perfect for me. I would consider my beard to be not to thick, but very tough. My skin is normal sensitivity. While I bought this razor more based on look and feel and weight, I was very pleasantly surprised with the shave and would highly recommend it for both beauty and functionality.
If you are in to perfect finish, buy something else. If you are more antique oriented or "artsy" you are likely to really enjoy this product. ANYONE should find it to be a great razor in terms of pure utility.