German razor query

[KaleCommando]

Hi all,

I purchased (not expensive) this vintage straight razor (1920?), although I have no idea where its from.



My guess its a German with a Swiss gents name (Siemon Bodenberg) on it. (Bodenberg is a small Swiss village)

Anyone has any idea/more info?

Thanks.

 

[johnmrson]

Pre 1891, razors weren't required to have their contry of manufacture on them so it could be from anywhere but a good number came out of Germany so that's probably a good bet. It looks as if the taper is the shape of the blade. It's what is called a smiling blade. I can't see any more hone wear towards the tip of the blade. I think that for 25 euros, you did pretty good. Get it honed and shave with it.

 

[totorlekiller]

This one is a keeper.
I have a Fontenille with a blade like that and it is my favorite.

I think C. Siemon is either a gentleman that got his name on the razor or more likely a barber or a cuttlery located in Bodenberg.
I have a few french razors that were rebranded like that.

 

[KaleCommando]

Thanks for the replies. Nice to hear. Its my first vintage buy.

 

[KaleCommando]

On another forum someone said that the blade lost some metal due to honing... as far I can see its just the type of blade/shape. Anyone can shed some light on this?

 

[totorlekiller]

I think that smile on the blade is genuine. Not the cause of over-honing.
There are no honing wear at the spine so it would mean tape was used while honing heavily on the toe, which I find very unlikely.

My Fontenille has a similar shape, although not as pronounced. I think your blade was designed that way for comfort.

 

[KaleCommando]

Much appreciated, that's a nice looking razor you have there.

 

[totorlekiller]

This is my best shave. A Fontenille near wedge.
I am working on rescaling it now, but that takes time as I am not good at it.