Early Gems: a rich man's hobby

[FormerDATT]

My recent experience on The Bay proved that early Gems (pre-1912) are running in value and price as well as 1941 Ranger Techs. I saw three I was very interested in going for between 50-60 USD. I was disappointed I could not bid higher but held back mostly because I really exercised a bad case of RAD over the Christmas holidays. But a lesson learned for myself any anybody looking for one of these early shaving beauties, if seen present at an estate sale or an out of the way antique shop - grab 'em!!
Dave

 

[mkevenson]

I have but one Gem, a Jr. You mention pre 1912 Gems. I had read somewhere that there are no date codes on Gems or ser #s. Is there a doucment with pictures helping us, new to the SE Gem, on identification and year of origin?

 

[FormerDATT]

Patant date 1901. See just sold yesterday EBay item number: 140372042117

 

[michiganlover]

I have but one Gem, a Jr. You mention pre 1912 Gems. I had read somewhere that there are no date codes on Gems or ser #s. Is there a doucment with pictures helping us, new to the SE Gem, on identification and year of origin?

The Pre-1912's are generally referred to as the Lather Catcher's.

 

[D.Irving79]

i remember buying pre 1912 gems for under $20.


i should have kept my mouth shut

 

[mark_mw]

I'm acquiring a stash of Valet Auto-Strops and Rolls razors before .......

 

[napoleon]

Patant date 1901. See just sold yesterday EBay item number: 140372042117

I bought an exact one (only without the handle but in much better condition- no spots or brassing) for 19.99$ and I was the only bidder just 3 weeks ago.
So it isn't necessarily a rich man's hobby

 

[Rexall]

I grew up in a town near where Dave lives, and was thinking that such razors might still be available in the area at antique stores estate sales, garage sales, etc. But evidently they are no more plentiful there than here in Texas.
-Steve

 

[FormerDATT]

Stay in Texas, at least to shop (grin!). I have not ventured out to salina yet with their many antique shops, but closer to home nobody sells razors or even vintage brushes. I don't know if it is a sanitization thing or nobody believes they would bring much. I keep my eyes open but have only scored a FatBoy ($9) and a twenty dollar Old Spice Mug (The old one but still no bargain). Keeping fingers crossed. Something is up with EBay; there may be more of us traditionalists out there than I even realized - rich ones too!
Dave