I bid on 4 NOS straights with auctions ending within the same minute or so. I put up 2 windows and bid, hoping to get one razor. I ended up winning 3 of the 4 razors. The sellers were The Nuns of St. Dominic in Blauvelt, NY. They sent the razors in the ERN box that would have held 6. They were donated by someone who had worked in a grinding shop from 1950 to 2000 and was able to keep what was left in the shop when he retired. The ERNS are S 525 and say Best Silver Steel and are 6/8, but measure 13/16 to me and the J A Henckels 401 is 5/8.
I think they've been through several 10 years by now or maybe the 10 year guarantee starts once I start the first shave. I'll try more glamour shots later. I'm not the best with a camera.
You picked up some really outstanding razors in superb shape. IMO, Ern is as good as it gets, excellent shavers. Enjoy and congrats.
I tried both the J A Henckels and Ern this morning. I had to look back later to see if the Henckels had cut any whiskers, it went so smoothly as it mowed 'em down. The Ern's larger blade has an excellent feel. Does anyone know the time frame when the Ern S 525 and J A Henckels 401 might have been made?
Thanks. I just them through 5,3,1,.3 micron lapping film to give a bit sharper edge than there many decades factory edge.
I warned you of my camera abilities. Here are the 3 lined up to show the toes. ERNs are round point. The top razor has a spiked point reaching out to get you. 2 razors lined up show the etching on the shank at pivot area. You'll have to turn your head sideways to read it. Ern showing full hollow. J A Henckels showing full hollow...maybe extra hollow.