Hi guys, this one's just for funsies. I was so excited to get my package from Hungary yesterday! I have no idea what 90 percent of the shipping package says. I bought this lot solely to get a proper box for my granddaddy's ball end Tech. Not era-appropriate, but I like it. That alone is worth the low price I paid for this lot. The box isn't even near mint; it shows some wear and tear, but it's fine for the razor. I get the impression that it wasn't actively cared for, but just put up and let be. It has character. Here's what's really groovy. I honestly didn't notice it until after I made the purchase, but there's a box of cello-wrapped Gillette Blues tucked in the side, M-code 1967's made in England. The box is open but the blades appear unused. I'm undecided as to using the blades or keep them for atmosphere. Everything else is gravy. When I first saw the pictures of this razor, I thought it was a grungy, possibly 60s era Super Adjustable . After I made the purchase I studied the pictures more closely and realized it was black - a super grungy 70s era piece. Then I got excited at the possibility that it was my birth year, a 1971. Alas, it's a 73. Nonetheless it's a cool, unexpected find and a quick clean-up did wonders. It'll be my go-to throwdown razor it, if it shaves okay. I'm taking it on a trip this weekend, so I'm committed to it for the next several days for good or bad. And then, the infamous Techmatic, also a '73. In my mind, this is basically a free chance to look at one of these and give it a go. It came with a French-language box, and the razor and case are super clean, with the dial set at 1. It's almost as if the razor was bought and only used once. The blade has a wicked bend right in the center. I hope that didn't happen on someone's face! (I've imagined a 1973 scenario starring this guy, the Hungarian version of Joe Schmoe, proud of this technological terror constructed by Gillette, whose first shave ends in disaster and drives him to the latest DE, which is then beloved for years after.) I straightened it somewhat and tried to advance the blade, but no go. The dial spins with no effect. I don't know whether the problem is with the razor or the cartridge. I hope I can figure it out and give this a try. If not, I'll be scanning for cheap carts. No, I am NOT a masochist.
From what I've read, the Techmatics weren't great shavers, but you may want to give it a go. Just be aware that the replacement carts are no longer made, tho they do pop up on eBay every once in a while.