The most common of the Gibbs razors, the Modéle Normal received its French patent in 1942. Its most notable feature is the differential exposure on the two sides of the razor, indicated on the top cap as + (aggressive) and - (mild). First introduced with a Bakelite handle with catatalog reference Nº 14, it was followed by the metal handled Nº 16. Production of both continued through the 50s and perhaps later. The razor takes the notched blades introduced for the Gibbs adjustable in 1937. Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk
There were variations in design and packaging. My two examples of the Nº 14 have handles and heads which differ from each other. What I believe to be the later version has larger cutouts for drain slots, a slightly different baseplate profile, thinner cap, and a lighter handle. This version is in a red plastic case with raised letters as pictured in the 1951 catalog. My conjecture is that this case replaced the version with painted letters that would easily rub off. Another version of the 14 has an all black handle. My Nº16 meanwhile has the baseplate with the large drain holes, but with the thicker cap.
Weight range 42g to 62g. In comparison the Gibbs adjustables have typical weight of roughly 73g. Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk
The Gibbs 14/16 can be used with its own Gibbs blades, as well as other vintage French blades, including Gillette. Modern blades are easily modified with a 1/8" circular punch. The model which succeeded the Modele Normal - - the Rasoir Universal aka No. 13 - - retained the +/- system in a newly designed head which accepted standard DE blades. It was for sale by 1961 (I think. Could be later) . Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk
Great write up. Thanks for taking the time to give such a detailed post. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I'd heard of Gibbs before but your pics and write up helped me understand that cap better. Its a really cool razor.
Excellent review. My moneybox has been enlarged. В оригинале " Отличный обзор. Моя копилка знаний пополнилась."
A word about handles: the usual third party handles don't fit. I haven't found anything compatible. Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk
Depending on what level of aggressiveness you prefer, you might find the Nº16 even better, it's much better balanced than the head heavy 17. Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk
I found this razor at a flea market about two years ago. The seller was asking 20 euros. I didn't buy it, even though it was in nice condition, because I knew that I couldn't shave with it and the regular DE blades need modification to use them. I haven't regretted it, but I haven't found this specific model again.
20 Euros was probably too much. The 14 is quite common in Europe and demand low due to the proprietary blade hassle and plastic handle. Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk
You would expect the +/- would be equivalent to 4/2 on the adjustable but I'm guessing ...Maybe I'll get some calipers or a micrometer ... Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk