Question on Gillette date codes

[whistleman123]

Hi all,
I recently defected from SE to DE and am in love with a Gillette Tech I purchased. In researching the date codes I found that the alphabet repeats itself on the date code chart. How do I know if my Z1 Tech was made in 1954 or 1979?
My daily set up is this Tech loaded with Super Iridiums, Real Shaving Co. sensitive skin Shave2 Cream applied with a brush, and old spice. Usually a 3 pass shave works best for me.
Dan

 

[Blue-EyedSon]

I'm sure that others more knowledgeable than I on such matters will chime in, but based on the wiki for the Techs, it appears that the last year of production for Techs was 1973. Thus, based on that, I would assume that there were no 1979 Techs and yours is from 1954. Can anybody confirm?

 

[amishmotorboat]

They existed in 79. You'll notice a difference in head design, handle, and materials used. The 54 will be nickel or gold plated, have a pretty solid handle, and have the logo on the head. The 79 will have an aluminum handle, zinc, and have the word 'Gillette' on the head with no diamond.

 

[whistleman123]

Thanks guys! I guess mines a 1954. It really gives me a great shave!