Picked up this Darwin Hollow Ground Safety Razor in an antique store. Made in Sheffield England. First pic shows the razor case in the original felt sheath and instruction booklet. The remaining pics show the razor box opened and then the razor itself. The box comes with a small vial of strop paste...and two blades, both in very good condition. It is in excellent condition. Before yesterday I didn't know these razors existed. Always something new to learn.
Congratulations - That's in great condition! I like the pattern on these boxes There seem to be one or two for sale on the Bay, at any time. Prices used to be somewhat the same as the Rolls, but then they just sky rocketed a year or two ago - I'm guessing after a seller saw what the Deluxe models sold for
The Darwin is the razor for people who feel that the Rolls is too mainstream. Unlike the Rolls the Darwin is actually a safety razor, rather than a naked blade on a handle. It's even adjustable. Note that there is a little screwdriver concealed in the handle of the Darwin for adjusting the blade gap - how cool is that? Another difference is that the Rolls system both hones and strops the blade, while the Darwin only strops, although it has a coarse and fine strop. The blade on both razors will usually require some honing outside the system to get it back in shape. These blades are high carbon steel and the edge will deteriorate over time even if the blade has never been used. I just recently acquired a Darwin (not nearly as pretty as yours) and haven't yet had time to do anything more than look at it. --Bob
I saw a case for one at a thrift store near my house. It was just the case and it's a good looking case. I don't think it's there anymore.
