Hey guys, I've been wanting to get ahold of a pre 1930's razor to try out and merely to have something I can shave with that is so old my grandfather wouldn't even have bought one. An operational piece of history. I assume Gillette is the only brand back then pretty much? What's a good shaving and common model from those times?
Most affordable antique razor? 1929 and older.
- Thread starter Doppelgaenger
- Start date
There were many razors around then.
Your best bet would be a Ball handle tech. If you are dead set on making sure it's pre-1930, make sure it has a date code on it. They stopped putting date codes on them from 1930 and began again in 1950
Your best bet would be a Ball handle tech. If you are dead set on making sure it's pre-1930, make sure it has a date code on it. They stopped putting date codes on them from 1930 and began again in 1950
Gillette wasn't by any means the only brand, particularly during the '20s after their first set of patents expired, but they were certainly the most common and so would be the easiest to find at a good price. A ball-end Old Type should be very easy to come by without dropping a lot of cash at all -- under the $20 for a decent example should be pretty easy.
You just need to watch out for cracks in the handle's tube section. Minor cracks that don't cause the fittings on either end to be loose are fine if you're just looking for something to shave with, and can keep the collectors away.
I will say, however, that the Old Types are not a terribly forgiving razor. Personally, I'm a bigger fan of the NEWs from the '30s.
You just need to watch out for cracks in the handle's tube section. Minor cracks that don't cause the fittings on either end to be loose are fine if you're just looking for something to shave with, and can keep the collectors away.
I will say, however, that the Old Types are not a terribly forgiving razor. Personally, I'm a bigger fan of the NEWs from the '30s.
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The Techs didn't come out until the very end of the '30s. Pre-1930 would really just be the Old Type and the New Improved models.
I recently got a single ring, rarer but still to be had for less than $20. Also, I think it's a more forgiving razor than an Old Type if you're new to DEs.
You can get user grade single rings for $20-$30 if you hunt around.
- Thread starter
- #7
How unforgiving is unforgiving? I haven't tried an OC razor before which is part of the reason for this question
You'll probably cut yourself using an Old Type, but once you get the hang of it you'll be happy to use it. It doesn't hurt, just try not to stain a good work shirt.
- Thread starter
- #9
is it that much different from regular razors? I can use a slim on 9 with nearly no blood loss of any kind.
It is not so much the aggressiveness as it is the angle and stroke techniques required. The Old Type was designed when men shaved with straight razors, and demands that same level of attention from the user. They really aren't overly mean or aggressive - just mind your angle and pressure and keep the strokes short.
chongo gordo said:
No, the Slim on 9 exposes way more blade edge and can inflict a deeper, bloodier wound than an Old Type could. That being said, an OT used improperly is certain to nick or leave weepers, no matter how bloodless your "Slim on 9" results are.
My go to razor right now is an Old Type with a ball-end Tech handle. I find it very easy to use. The shape of the head encourages proper blade angle, atleast in my mind. A more steep angle (handle more perpendicular to my face). With the Tech handle, it's not only the heaviest razor I own atm, but also the most efficient. I love long comb NEWs, but prefer Old Types. Get one. You won't be disappointed.
Gillette Old Types and Single Rings might be a good option.
You are right, I have been going through razors lately and have been wading through mountains of techs and have the word on my mind. Thanks for the correction!
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