What birth year razors are available for me and where to find them.

[justadivebum]

I am pretty new to wet shaving and currently have an EJ 89 but would love to find a vintage birth year razor to add to the rotation. I have dug a little and really only find the Gillette black handle with stamp Y2 as made in 1978 4th quarter.

Am I missing some others that would have been made in 1978? If so what are they and where should I start looking?

I am also trying to decide on a good 40s or 50s razor to add to the Christmas so opinions on a semi-aggressive one from that era would also help a lot. I love the EJ but I think it's pretty mild.

Many thanks in advance from a new guy. This forum has really helped me get started and it is a great community.

 

[The Accountant]

I think there is a chart of Gillette razor codes / years / models in the DE razor section which will have the information you seek. There may be a Tech from your year; check the chart.

 

[justadivebum]

The chart found only listed the black handle Gillette super speed.

 

[Rick2035]

Unfortunately, you're limited, but not too limited. Our own B&B Gillette dating info chart (see URL below) shows the venerable 3-piece Tech being made up until '79. The black-handled Super Speed was produced until '86 and the Super Adjustable until '88.

As for where to get them, B/S/T is great for a "want to buy" or "want to trade." eBay is an option that I am somewhat forced to use here in Germany, but the prices there can be outrageous. Etsy has vintage razors available, although I note the overall quantity and generally quality of those offered is inferior to those that can be found on eBay. Still, if you're only looking for user vice collector grade Etsy is a great place to pick up some fine razors.

Another source would be the B&B vendors, but you will pay a pretty penny. They are terrific quality and those hard to find models are often available.

I hope this has helped. Happy shaving!

Rick

Gillette Dating Info: http://wiki.badgerandblade.com/US_Gillette_Dating_Information