At the end of March I won a 1951 Gillette SS Black Tip on Ebay. It was my first vintage razor and it needed to be cleaned something awful. It was undamaged and in otherwise great shape, but the soap residue and hard water stains just made it look like something I didn't want to drag across my face, let alone keep in my bathroom. Below is a pic from the auction, and it's actually a kind pic I think. It was a lot more disgusting. Old Pic: Some of you may remember another post I did around that time, asking for help remembering the place that cleans up razors for $20. I didn't want it restored or replated, I just wanted a thorough cleaning done. Well, shortly after that posting I got a PM from our own Lutebro. He asked if he could take a shot at cleaning it up. I'd seen his blog and knew he took care of his own, so I figured why not? Nothing ventured, nothing gained, and he was offering to do it for free. So I sent it off. I just got it back from him, and I have to say I'm impressed. It shines. It's clean. It's exactly what I'd wanted. It's something I'm not afraid to drag across my face and definitely nothing to hide. Teaser Pic Lutebro sent me: I specifically didn't want a replate, as in my mind it makes a vintage razor lose the vintage appeal. The thorough cleaning and shine he gave is exactly the look I'd wanted: Obviously vintage, but clean and well taken care of. Imagine a 60 year old car that's been a daily driver all that time, well maintained and still running. That's the best analogy I have for it. I'll take it for a test drive at tomorrow night's shave. I'd use it tonight but I've been growing scruff for three days to see if that improves the shave of my new Cadet OC. Thanks again Lutebro!
Are you telling me that my DE razor shaving obsession is going to take me to getting vintage razors? Haha, oh well. Your Gillette looks great, Mr. Shaverman!
Was my pleasure to do it. Glad you like it. Wish I had taken more pictures myself but with two kids 4 and under I'm lucky to get anything done Looking forward to seeing your pictures!
Yeah, I'll have to see about pics! The only camera I've got is a bad cell phone and it's not showing me anything presentable tonight. I'll try again later.
I used this last night. I wanted to get rid of some of the loose blades I've had floating around so I put in a Feather. Probably not the best choice in retrospect, but it worked. Got a great shave from this razor. Thanks again, Lutebro!
