I've had pretty decent success looking for vintage straight razors in a number of locations. ebay (and other online auction sites) is rife with used straight razors, but shopping there can be risky as often what you see in photos doesn't truly reflect the condition of the item purchased. My own personal preference is to be able and see the razor first-hand. Hold it, inspect it—and be sure I'm aware of any potential flaws before purchasing. This is one of the reasons I enjoy the in-person 'hunt' at antique stores and garage/estate sales. This past weekend while in Reno, I dragged a few buddies with me into several 'antique mall' locations. I covered quite a bit of territory in my hunt, scanning display cases for the tell-tale signs of vintage shaving goods (the conspicuous items usually are an old Gillette Tech, Gem or beat-up shaving brush). Much to my disappointment, the overwhelming majority of straight razors found (probably 25-30 total) were just junk! No-name razors in horrid shape, well beyond redemption, and a number of cheap 'Pakistan' stamped blades. Most had prices far exceeding the value (usually $45 or higher, no matter the condition). The final place we entered had a single display case containing nearly a dozen straights. I spied a few of those 'pakistani' shavers (ugh!), but recognized a few names (Genco, Robeson Cutlery, C-Mon...). The clerk unlocked the case and allowed me to inspect a number of the SRs. The Genco, Robeson and C-Mon were all horribly ground-down blades to less than 1/2" or less. With the case open , however, I could see several more razors tucked away, hidden from view, under the display cabinet's lid. I found four additional razors, a Wade & Butcher humpback, JR Torrey, a Dubl Duck and a Spike. The Spike was junk, but the other three had restoration potential. The total asking price for the remaining three was $135 $60 for the Dubl Duck, $35 for W&B, and $40 for the big Torrey. I mentioned the condition of each (all required restoration work to make them usable) and offered $65 for the trio. Seller countered with $120 for all three. My final bid of $75 for the lot was accepted so for $25/each, I felt I had done a decent job with three razors that had potential. The Torrey is the largest I've ever come across (3/4"). The W&B humpback is just unique in the blade engraving and the horn scales are in good shape. Both razors have some black rust to be dealt with. The DD Satinedge has clear celluloid scales similar to my CMON Caddy and should clean up beautifully. The blade is in terrific shape. The Reno Trio....not perfect, but some potential.
Nice finds and good negotiating, Kevin. I look forward to seeing their transformation. I'm sure they will turn out to be beauties....as well as smooth shavers.
