I have posted my rating of vintage Gillette razors in the past, but that was when I was still learning them.
Now, after months of using vintage Gillettes exclusively, I think I am ready to update my rating. This is only based on the razors I own. Some results may be skewed by only having a single razor of its type that may not be performing as it should.
So, here's my highly subjective list. It's based on performance, aesthetics, and just personal preference:
1. 1956 Flare tip Superspeed. Very comfortable, efficient, and I love the aesthetics.
2. 1960 Tech. Just as comfortable and efficient, and a joy to use after I paired it with a substantial modern handle.
3. 1966 Flare tip Superspeed. Just as good as the earlier model in performance, but rattles (Gillette changed the head design in 1962 or so).
4. 1951 Black tip "40's style" Superspeed. A little (only a little) more efficient than any of the above razors, but honestly I just don't like the 40's style design as much.
5. 1967 Flare tip. It shaves as well as any other Flare tips, but it also has the later rattly head and the black resin aluminum handle makes it a little lighter.
6. 1953 40's Style Superspeed. This may be the sample variation since all 40's type heads seem to be the same, but it's a little more aggressive than the rest.
7. 1972 Super 84 adjustable. I think this is the best Gillette adjustable razor. Slightly more efficient than the Slims, very maneuverable.
8. 1971 Super 109 adjustable.
9. 1962 Slim. I am still trying to "solve" it. A beautiful mechanical piece, but I don't always get the best shaves with it.
10. Pre-war Tech with triangular slots. It's pretty aggressive for a Gillette (mid-aggressive in the overall scheme). I used to be a fan of aggressive razors, but grew to appreciate the comfortable efficiency of vintage Gillettes.
11. New Long Comb. Even more aggressive. Not a daily driver for me.
Now, after months of using vintage Gillettes exclusively, I think I am ready to update my rating. This is only based on the razors I own. Some results may be skewed by only having a single razor of its type that may not be performing as it should.
So, here's my highly subjective list. It's based on performance, aesthetics, and just personal preference:
1. 1956 Flare tip Superspeed. Very comfortable, efficient, and I love the aesthetics.
2. 1960 Tech. Just as comfortable and efficient, and a joy to use after I paired it with a substantial modern handle.
3. 1966 Flare tip Superspeed. Just as good as the earlier model in performance, but rattles (Gillette changed the head design in 1962 or so).
4. 1951 Black tip "40's style" Superspeed. A little (only a little) more efficient than any of the above razors, but honestly I just don't like the 40's style design as much.
5. 1967 Flare tip. It shaves as well as any other Flare tips, but it also has the later rattly head and the black resin aluminum handle makes it a little lighter.
6. 1953 40's Style Superspeed. This may be the sample variation since all 40's type heads seem to be the same, but it's a little more aggressive than the rest.
7. 1972 Super 84 adjustable. I think this is the best Gillette adjustable razor. Slightly more efficient than the Slims, very maneuverable.
8. 1971 Super 109 adjustable.
9. 1962 Slim. I am still trying to "solve" it. A beautiful mechanical piece, but I don't always get the best shaves with it.
10. Pre-war Tech with triangular slots. It's pretty aggressive for a Gillette (mid-aggressive in the overall scheme). I used to be a fan of aggressive razors, but grew to appreciate the comfortable efficiency of vintage Gillettes.
11. New Long Comb. Even more aggressive. Not a daily driver for me.
