This week I received a set of razors from my parents that we believe belonged to my great x3 grand father in the 1880s. The set is numbered 1 through 4 on the spines and set in an Appleton & Bassett (Boston) box. My wife thinks I should have them appraised and put them away for safe keeping. I have no idea where around here would accurately appraise them. And as nice as they are I feel I should actually learn to use them... What would you do with this set? If I were to set these up for use; What places provide the best honing services for the price? What are the best budget strops out there that I can get? What else would I need to put these to good use?
Just use them, enjoy the family connection. They are already used so enjoy. Give this is a family heirloom they are priceless. For restoration and honing both @gssixgun and @HolyRollah do fantastic work.
Very nice looking razors, Glen @gssixgun does very good work honing and ready to use. I would definitely keep them and use them. Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk
Nice looking razors. I would have them restored, and honed properly. Then, use them every chance you can. Dont skimp. BTW, it looks like they have Ivory Scales.
I think that box gives a pretty narrow window to the age of the razors. George Appleton opened a retail business (cutlery included) in 1883 as Appleton & Litchfield. Looks like the name changed to Appleton & Bassett in 1893. Their doors closed in 1901. Looks like a nice 8 year window to date that set. I have a gentleman’s Wade & Butcher set myself in an Appleton & Bassett box. Love it! Congrats on the heirloom. As for a strop, I’m a big fan of a Plain Vanilla from Tony Miller. Heirloomrazorstrop.com Tom
I'd use them. That being said, i wouldn't learn on them. A few similar razors to learn with would be a good idea. (In my mind anyway) Research what using and daily maintaining your items entails . Improper treatment can cause serious issues. I personally would hate to put a spot on a beautiful piece of family history. And something as simple as failing to completely dry one of these blades can leave a stain that it would take a restorer to remove.
What a great honor to be able to use the very same tools that your ancestor shaved with. Add to the family history.
I'd personally would just use them and imagine my family member shaving with them just like I would be at that time. Past and present coming together in a beautiful scene of the connection of family. Much more valuable than any money.
