Help identify this razor... PLEASE!!!!

[GoTeeGuy]

I recently purchased a number of vintage DE's at a local antique market, and this razor was thrown in with the lot. (See pics below.) It was very badly tarnished prior to cleaning -- the text was completely obscured and I was uncertain whether or not this was even a Gillette.

After 2 days of scrubbing, I have finally got the razor cleaned. It took much elbow grease, hot water, and even some vinegar -- but it worked.

I have noticed that the head of the razor is brass and it has been mis-matched with a chrome / silver handle from a Gillette Tech. That is where my knowledge ceases to assist me.

Can anyone help identify this razor? What year was it manufactured? What did the original handle look like? Any bit of info will be appreciated.

Thanks,
- Ken -

 

[With The Grain]

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[GoTeeGuy]

Thanks, James!

From what I've read, the "Goodwill" razor was made from a lot of different over-stock pieces and, as such, there were many different configurations of this razor. Any idea what the original handle would have looked like?

- Ken -

 

[With The Grain]

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[With The Grain]

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[GoTeeGuy]

James,

I took a look at the link you posted. Thanks... I was actually viewing that page last night and figured this was most likely a Goodwill design as well. I'm just baffled by the diamond shaped holes in the top guard. I've never seen anything like it before.

Thanks as well for your input on the handle design. This too was the handle I envisioned with this razor head. Now... I just have to find one in brass.

- Ken -

 

[With The Grain]

.:

 

[GoTeeGuy]

I hear ya!... I've been trying to purchase only items which have date stamps or serial numbers; however, I have recently come across a number of Gillette's made in England which have no stamps at all (e.g., Rocket). Interesting pieces which I am glad to have, but very frustrating when trying to date them.

After hearing about my interest in wetshaving, my father-in-law dug out his father's 1918 Gillette #102 which he had packed away for ages. It still looks pretty good, but I don't think I'm gonna shave with it. An interesting find, none the less!

 

[yasuo200365]

In the most part the nicest razors are not date coded or serial numbered - the 1930's & 40's IMO was Gillettes finest era.

The 1930's NEW models, especially the Belmont style of three piece are pretty special and the post-war One-Piece razors such as the Aristocrat & Superspeed are good as well.

Personally I wouldn't worry too much about knowing the exact year of manufacture, instead go collect the best models.

Regards
John

 

[moses]

John,

What is the Belmont style?