Jager Chatsworth

[solar]

If you're considering a Jaeger Chatsworth DE razor, I can offer my opinion on that item. I got a Jaeger Chatsworth not too long ago, and it has quickly become my favourite DE razor. The handle length is perfect for me, aided by the graceful curved lines of said handle, which make it easier to hold and work with.

The head weight is perfect, not too heavy but certainly very solid and well finished. This razor is a bit more expensive than many others, but so far up against my Merkur Futur, Merkur HD, and a Muhle R106, the Jaeger just does it best for me. I realise this is a purely subjective position, based on handle shape and length, among other aspects.

The Merkur Futur is an outstanding razor, but the handle is more blocky than the Chatsworth and not as easy to handle for me. That said, the Futur is so solid, that I can just allow the head to slide with the grain down my face, allowing the weight of the razor to do all the work. The Chatsworth is lighter, and requires more driving than the Futur in my experience, but this is not a deal breaker for me.

The HD handle is a tad short for my preference, but the HD is of course a very fine tool, as is the R106, each having qualities of design and use that make them outstanding. However, there is a certain quality of combined design specifics about the Jaeger Chatsworth that puts that razor at the head of my rotation.

The faux ivory handle is a favourite design of mine aesthetically, and while I'm not a big fan of corporate branding, the Jaeger name is so crisply and beautifully applied to the handle that I don't mind it being there.

I must say that in this instance, I'm having a hard time moving the Chatsworth out of rotation, preferring its use to all others in the morning.

Best,

Chris

 

[gordolindsay]

Thanks for the write-up. I've been eying one because I love my DE89, but wish the handle was a little longer and had a bit more heft to it. The Chatsworth looks to be my answer, but it is a bit of coin for just a handle (since I already have the same head).

Hopefully more people can give their input and compare to the trusty DE89.

 

[Jim]

I am a big fan of the Chatsworth and have 3 of them. I use one almost every day.

 

[Speedwell68]

I have just bought SWMBO a EJ DE86 and I have to say that compared to my Muhle R89 it is a much better razor, more weight and a better balance. I have to say that if I was considering another new razor I think the EJ Chatsworth would be top of the shopping list.

 

[Uncle Erik]

I'm a huge fan of the DE89L, but have been thinking about either upgrading to a Chatsworth or having Cooncatbob turn a custom handle for the DE89L. I'm undecided so far - does anyone have an opinion?

 

[malocchio]

I have the chatsworth barleycorn.....I will passthis one down to my grandson when he starts shaving...it is bulletproof

 

[Mitts]

The Chatsworth provides me with the best shave also. The new Muhle head provides "just right" blade exposure for my beard. I like the feel of the sharp corners of the head too. I have the metal barley textured handle which is very heavy, and grippy enough to hang on to. The heft is great, and feels right after you use it for a few days to aclimate. I purchased a nice aluminum Cooncat Bob Bullmastiff handle from Alex that I have been switching back and forth with the barley handle. The aluminum handle is a little lighter than I prefer. It would be a great travel option. The Bullmastiff in brass would suit me better I think. For people that have the 89 razors that would prefer more weight, a metal Chatsworth would be a good choice, or get one of Bobs brass handles. I don't think the plastic Chatsworth would be enough heavier to make the move.
Russ

 

[N_Architect]

I agree with Russ - just got the EJ Chatsworth in faux horn and it could (or should, for my tastes) preferably feel a little heavier on its handle. I did check the weights of the all-metal and faux horn one before purchasing, and felt at the time the faux horn would be ok.

I have a Muehle R89 but still want to try the EJ more. I believe in the long run it should prove to be a great razor. One reason I did not get the barley or the lined EJ Chat is that the R89 has more or less the same 'texture' handle finish.

Anyway, more feedback to come as I put the EJ chat more into the rotation.