First DE shave report & razor quest

[PWS1]

Hey all,

So, I had my first DE shave this weekend and was pleasantly surprised. First of all, I expected to get several cuts, but none resulted. YAHOO!! The shave was pretty close, but I'm sure it will get better as I gain some technique. I'm still waiting on my RazoRock Classic TTO, and in my impatience, I purchased a vintage Gillette 3 pc at an Antique shop on Saturday. I am not sure of the model and I'm hoping you can help...

The razor is an open comb design that has a fairly short, fat handle. The ball end pressure fits into the handle and it appears that it is designed to hold a steptic pencil? The razor is gold plated and alot of the plating is wore off the head, but it is still in good condition and I'm not worried about rust since it is brass. Also, it came in a small case that is red on top and black on the bottom. Can anyone tell me the model of this razor? I'll try to take a few pics and post them soon.

THANKS!!

 

[PWS1]

Here are a few pics of the razor. In addition to the "Made in USA" and Gillette (in diamond), there are three patent numbers on the bottom. Pat No 1815745, Pat No 1858315 and Reissue Pat No 17567





I appreciate any info you guys may be able to provide. Thanks!

 

[mblakele]

The patent numbers are typical of a NEW made in mid-1932 through 1939 or 1940, and the cap and guard look right for that. See http://wiki.badgerandblade.com/Category:Gillette_NEW_Razors for more reading, and http://mr-razor.com/Rasierer/The NEW/The NEW.htm for more examples of the type. The NEW is my favorite head design.

The barrel and knob styles look like an odd combination to me. The knob looks like the one from a Tuckaway or Milady razor, while the barrel looks more like a ball-end style - or maybe not a Gillette at all. Possibly a previous owner mixed up some parts, or it could be original. Gillette was always doing odd things. Either way it is in user-grade condition: not collectible or very valuable, but very much worth using.

The knob is supposed to be firmly attached to the barrel, but over the years some of them just fall out. You can leave it alone, or glue it back together if it bothers you.

 

[PWS1]

Since I didn't buy if for collector value, I'm assuming the $5 I paid for it, with the case, was a good deal! Thanks for the info....

 

[n2hql]

yes, $5 was a good price with a case, usually the case ups the price nicely

 

[PWS1]

Can anyone tell me how mild / aggressive this razor is? It is my first DE, so although I know how it feels on my face, I don't have anything to compare it to. I'm waiting on my RazoRock Classic TTO to deliver; will it be more or less aggressive than this Gillette?

thanks!