Fantastic photo and shave, Pierpaolo. Cool song selection today, it is new to me.
While doing a Google search, I saw this from one of my favorite artists.

Sed Libera Nos a Malo - Salvador Dalí

Thanks, Gary, good morning!

Beautiful photo and razor selection! The new LC is just a fabulous shaver!

Razor - Blackland Blackbird
Blade - Gillette Rubie
Brush - Jason’s delightful 30DC LE
Cream - T.O.B.S. Grapefruit
Post - Stirling Orange Chill Witch Hazel


Ok, fellas. We’re gonna close the books on Operation Rubie. The blade made it clear this morning that it’s ready for retirement. Definitely a reduction in smoothness, particularly going ATG. Not dreadful, by any means, yet not worth pushing forward. With an estimated 18 full shaves, plus a number of back-or-the-neck cleanups, you can’t ask for much more. Besides, I’m afraid Gillette is going to call and ask for more money. Let’s not get the word out on the streets, lest they raise the price on Rubies. At least until I can sneak in a bulk purchase.

Taylor’s Grapefruit provided plenty of goodness for the razor to do its thing, aided by some swirling of Jason’s beautiful creation.

With only an application of Orange Chill as a post (just for fun), a most epic shave was had.





Have a great day, gents!


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Gary, you did recently add some later model AutoStrops (division of Gillette) to your collection. What about vintage examples from other brands eventually falling under the Gillette umbrella (Minora, 7OC, Nacet)

Absolutely stunning lather, Joseph! Great shave and report, sir.

Thanks, Jim, yeah there’s a YT review that highlights it. HERE The design doesn’t accommodate AC blades well, and since the only shavettes I’m interested in are either AC or injector blade holders, it wouldn’t work for me. I’m more than good with my two Feather SS and my new Monsieur Charles I’ll be picking up tomorrow. Swapped it for a Merkur 34 that I never shave with.

I expected to see the Desert Vetiver make an appearance this morning...you surprised me. Not in a disappointing way (actually, it could even be enabling). Why the change in preference? Longer lasting? Just prefer the performance?

That's how it's done, Gary! Fine selection of products today! That razor is beautiful....and that brush - WOW!

He's headed for a custom of some sort. He just might not know it yet. He's been bitten hard....

Superb shave and photo, Clint!! Love the new Portuguese gear!
Happy Hump Day.

Great shave Pics along with your very entertaining commentary and graphics. The Yardley soap is that good?? Hmmmm!

Interesting. I never noticed that when I used mine. I'll have to take a closer look at it.

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Thanks, Clint!

Terrific B&W shot, Bruce!

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Ok, Jeff...you made me do a search. Those are also stunning razors. Honestly, for handmade customs, the prices aren't all that bad. Pricey, yes...but not awful for a piece of usable artwork.
I think you're closer to owning one than you realize.

Good solid shave, Paul!

Thank you, Andrew.

Luciano Ligabue is a famous italian rocker.
I've been grown with his songs.
Today is the last day of Kaizen, with its "aroma".
The song is about freedom ...


I did not know this beautiful painting by Dali.
Thanks for sharing it.

I think just G20 but they do look fancy.