Recently (today) acquired a nice single ring. Straight comb, straight teeth, no handle cracks and a killer dark almost black patina. Looks awesome. How do I sterilize, or otherwise clean this for use without damaging the patina? On any other vintage Gillette (nickel or gold) I've just used Dawn and Scrubbing Bubbles and a bit of alcohol etc. but what do I do with this razor? I don't want to change the look, but always feel more comfortable shaving with a razor after a reasonably good hygenic go-over. What say you vintage aficionados?
Dawn is sufficient I would think. Obviously the razor is unused for ages, I don't believe you need to worry much about surviving cooties. If that isn't sufficient for you I would think a quick treatment of Comet bathroom cleanser or Scrubbing Bubbles would not ruin the patina but patina preservation is not something I've aimed for.
If you have a Sonic Jewelry, Metal Cleaner, it's the best way to go. Fill it with hot distilled water, not boiling, add a few drops of Dawn and turn it on for about 8/10 minutes. It will be all shiny and clean, and it will not effect the patina. It will also be disinfected.
I use Dawn, sometimes scrubbing bubbles, without bleach, for stubborn razors. Seems like that's a silver plated single ring and I would polish it up afterwards as they look good. I'd be wary of strong cleaners as it could remove the silver plating.
Thanks for the info guys. What I'm really trying to do is disinfect the razor (which has been used recently by a previous owner) without polishing or removing the black tarnish to the silver plating. I suppose a simple wash with warm tap water and Dawn will be sufficient. I haven't been more extensive in cleaning my other vintage pieces and there's probably more risk in using the elevator buttons at the local hospital. Ya, I'm overthinking this. Off to the sink I go. Will post photos shortly.