I own over 50 vintage Gillette razors that I’ve bought over the course of the last 5 or 6 years and no two of them are the same. I also bought my first Gillette in an antique shop, a 40’s super speed, and fell in love with the quality and craftsmanship. Your archive series taught me everything I needed to begin collecting. Thanks for everything you do Matt and RE team!
And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.”’ 20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ 21 “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”
Morning Matt. I was a Gillette user from back in the day, 1st razor was a "63 Slim Adjustable. I lost it while on board ship. It was replaced by the Red Cross with an Aluminum Tech back in '68 while in the Philippines. I kept that razor for several years. Bought another Slim Adjustable when I returned to the states and used it into the '80s. Like most I switched to the "new" era of shaving with the cartridge, and electric razors. About 8 yrs ago I heard about the wet shaving craze and decided to come back. couldn't find the old razor so I went to Ebay and found a pretty good '63 Gillette Slim. It was like meeting an old friend that you haven't seen in a long time. I have never looked back. I continue to collect Gillette razors, many of which RE has revamped for me, even customizing them for me. Thanks Matt for all that you do for the community.
when I was in the navy, the zippo company replaced my brass lighter, this story reminded me of that. I severly damaged the case, and it was thrown away by someone else, all I had was the insert part. I was mad because I wanted to send it back for the warranty, I emailed zippo and said all I have is the cartridge part, is this ok? they sent me a whole new brass lighter and didnt even ask for the old lighter. I kept that brass zippo for about 6 years after i left the navy and lost it while moving to another state. :( i wish i could find it.
One more covert here. Fascinating how often I read these same comments. Modern cartridge razors are junk from the day of purchase. I too didn’t understand the excitement over vintage razors. A Merkur 33C ‘received as a gift immediately converted me to a DE shaver for life. Learning to use it led me to vintage Gillettes, which I never imagined could happen. That led me to Razor Emporium and eventually my Flagship razor, my Ambassador XL flanked by a modest and unintended collection of vintage Gillette safety razors. I love everyone one of them and will pass them down to my son and grandson and save them the aggravation of modern shave junk. What a scam we all fell into. As a comedic reminder of how we get steered around by marketeers, I kept the last “free” razor I received in the mail a few years back, a Gillette Fusion, a 5 bladed wonder that even vibrates!🤣 and now, I see they have a heated model! The quality that comes out of Razor Emporium is remarkable, both their new razors as well as their revamps. Who would have ever thought there would be a market for 70 year old razors?
I own a 1956 flare tip speed shaver. It's from my birth year and I think it's about the type of Gillette that my father owned. When we sold off my parents estate nobody was wet. Shaving. Unfortunately I think his Gillette wound up in the dumpster. There's five kids and nobody knows what happened to it. Anyway, I bought mine and I've used it a number of times. It brings back and memories of my dad and makes me feel good. One day soon I'm going to send it to you to have it replayed it in rhodium. It still is very functional but could use some TLC. Thanks for what you do. It's why I choose your store and your products above most others. The education you provide is worth it. Cheers- Kevin
I didn’t understand what the fuss was about with vintage Gillettes till someone gave me an English Flared Rocket to try 6 months ago, I now own 10 including 2 Fatboys, a Slim Adjustable, 2 Super Speeds, and a number of English Gillettes. I really do not use modern razors anymore.
Same here! My first was the Slim Adj. G-1. When I bought and used an E-2 Fat Boy from Razor Emporium, I found the smoothest shave I ever had! I now have two Black Beauty s A-1, as well.
And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
Congrats - you're the winner of the Weekly T-Shirt give-away! Please contact us at help@razoremporium.com with your address and size and we will get it shipped out right away! Thanks everyone! Stay tuned next week for another giveaway! - Razor Emporium Team
Just got my Gillette FATBOY 1961 nickel factory revamp back 2 days ago and really loved the shave. Something about shaving with an instrument the same age as me. The shave was great and your workmanship is incredible. Going to add a few more for sure. Great job Matt!
I have 2 newer razors. Six older ones ranging from 1980 back to 1920. The oldest ones are simply fantastic. There is just something special about them.
Have a Fatboy, had it replated here in uk. Use it a lot, as I do many of the newr ones. Just wish we had a Emporium here in UK. To get a good antique one were the plating is still OK is a toughy.
Similar shaving journey, which is why I enjoy RE so much. Started shaving in the 90s and most razors on the market sucked and usually cause irritation. Started my vintage razor journey for a better shave, full stop. Now I’m hooked and collect when I can. Vintage razors are the way to go. Thanks RE!
Apart from my Rex Ambassador, I tend to always reach for a vintage in my collection when it’s time for a shave. The search for a Slim adjustable online sent me down the rabbit hole 4 years ago, I’ve purchased 3 of them since, each from a different year in history. My three super speeds get regular use and so does my Fatboy, I love the versatility with each of them.
Months back you inspired me to try buying a vintage razor on eBay. I won an auction on two: Fatboy and 109. I mostly like using my Henson AL13+, but I occasionally use a vintage razor. Thank you for videos on how to clean up vintage razors.
I am so happy I switched to vintage wet shaving and your videos were very helpful. Your shop is amazing and the staff is extremely helpful. It reminds me of watching my Grandfather when I was young when looking clean shaved was important.
A large chunk of modern razors are based on vintage razors, so it’s good to see where they came from. Vintage razors are well-made, shave well, and as long as they are taken care of, will outlive all of us!
I have the Fatboy prospector from you. Really like it. Just like with old mechanical watches their machining capabilities were amazing. They made quality products meant to last.
Good morning! You don’t have to pitch to me-I have 3 Gillettes from you guys! 1 Fatboy rhodium, 1fatboy prospector, and 1 slim prospector. Super impressive razors! Lots of fun to shave with; and they deliver an excellent shave! Thanks Matt.
I got into this crazy world because it was cheaper to buy the razor James Bond used in Goldfinger than the car. Now I just love the way they shave. I think people assume that a modern CNC razor is automatically better because they're made so precisely, but not many capture that same Goldilocks geometry. Modern razors are usually on either end of the mild-aggressive spectrum, but the grandpas who gave us these whiskers used something in the middle.
When I started wet shaving all I wanted to do was try all the old razors and is mostly the reason I started to straight shave, these are words of wisdom!!! The older razors are never going to be remade and never like they were made back in the day… a lot of the work was done by hand and that’s one of the coolest things about them try one and see!!
Vintage Razors work, they work like the day they were made. I often wonder what all they hype is about some of the Modern Hyped Razor that cost mega bucks. Maybe I am wrong but Vintage Gillette’s work at shaving off my Beard. Looking forward to AZ Wet Shave Meetup Next Saturday.👍
The No.1 of my collection is my D1 Gillette Toggle that has NEVER been used. It is still in its box with the original blades. I have 2 razors that I use, one is my Fatboy, which is 1 of 3 and the Rockwell 6S.
Good morning! Just woke up and was about to shave my with my vintage Schick Injector when I saw this, definitely agree that vintage stuff is a level above most ;)
As most i was taught to use cartridge razors and was getting frustrated with the cost of blades so when Rick Harris started advertising a double edge razor I purchased one but wasn't happy how it did. Then one day looking on internet I came across Razor Emporium and purchased my first Gillette revamped razor.
Fell in love how well it shaved went back and purchased a red tip Gillette. These are all I use now and purchase all my blades from Razor Emporium. You won't go wrong with Their craftsmanship and prices.
I love my vintage razors and use some of them regularly. I have somewhere around 80-90 vintage razors from a 1904 Double Ring to my birth year/quarter collection from 1975 and tons in between.
I do have some old Gillette razors -- perhaps one of them is from the late 1940s, and the others are from the 1950s and 1960s. But I don't have a Fat Boy or any of the Gillette adjustables. I'm extremely fortunate that my uncle handed down these razors to me. I in turn will hand down my razors to someone.
I have only shaved with my 1966 Gillette (year I was born) once, mostly because I bought it, from you of course, as a collector item. Maybe I should buy another for actually shaving! I was always kind of fascinated by them. My Dad, who did not live with us, always shaved with an electric razor and always had uneven stubble and my Grandfather was always very cleancut!
found this today. Bought a de at walmart on the shelf for $17. I had a cheap one in the past but this new one is briliant. much closer shave. much cleaner shave. alot less passes and now just to figure out what to do with razor burn. Still more comfortable than a halfass shave.
I guess we’re in tune. Last night I was thinking of a friend who just started wet shaving and is using a modern DE razor. He seems to be enjoying. I’ve been sending him random pics of my vintage DE Gillette’s. I really need to send him one. That all said I have a couple of the King C new razor that came out recently. One I bought another given to me by a Gillette retiree. They sent him one when they came out. He doesn’t use it and gave it to me. They’re nice. They’re mild. And in my search for a fun thing I put an old open comb bottom on it from a vintage and it really kicked it up a notch! The new long handle and new cap but old base.. I should send one to my buddy!
I have several vintage DE and SE razors. Gillette, Schick, Gem, Keen Kutter, Rolls-Razor, Roller Razor, Ever-Ready... from the 1910's to the 1970's. I love them all. Don't get me wrong, I have several new ones too. Merkur Futur was my very first. Vision was my second.
Matt recently did a red tip for me in rhodium it is friggin amazing I can’t speak highly enough . If you have a eBay or hand me down razor having it revamped to enjoy and use is worth every penny!! Thanks Matt !!
Thanks for all great and honest videos you post! I've just got a Gillette Slim (1960s) from Ebay in excellent condition for less than $50. One of the top ports has a small chip on the nickel plating so I am planning to have it replated. All other parts look great and the shaver is very clean as well. Only one shaving so far but I got immediately impressed with how easy, safe and effective that was. I've been using straight razors for a while and always have to be extremely careful. The Slim is probably going retire my straight razor and it seems it will last forever.
I don't think you can be considered a shave enthusiast. For cryin out loud i don't like tto razors but have 3 vintage adjustables (2 gillette slim adjustables and a 109 adjustable). It's our heritage as men, especially if you're American. And if you're like me and don't like tto razors then get a tech, or old, or new. There's vintage for everybody.
Love vintage - I figure they were made for the 'everyman' at a time when they were the only option on the market - so chances are they were going to be OK! My first was a Gillette Fathandle and for fun I'm up to 4 or 5 U1/1974 razors - to match my birthday!!
Gillette Tech, the fat or flat handle made in USA - When made I do not know, but I inherited one. It was the first razor I used in the transition from disposable safety razors to double edge razor. Today I still use Gillette Tech but most of the time I use King C Gillette Double Edge Razor.
I have a pretty good size collection, for many of the reasons you mention in the video. Lately I have been favoring a fat handled Tech or a GEM Clog-pruf. The best part is finding birth year razors, I have one for both of my parents, my wife, and myself, even though we were born in the mid-80s. It's a great rabbit hole, but you need to know your budget and be realistic.
This video makes me beam with pride! I think that 3-piece brass Gillette is the same razor I learned to wet shave on over 10 years ago and have been using ever since. Of course yours is in better shape. I'm so glad I learned this skill. Love your videos
I shave everyday with a Gillette Slim I1 in rhodium revamped by Razor Emporium. It is unbeatable in the quality of the shave when paired with a good blade. I have a small gathering of vintage razors, mostly Gillettes, and have covered my birth year. The few modern DE razors that I have just aren’t the same. I also have two modern slant razors which I reserve for mowing down more than two days growth, which is rare for me. I have revamped several old Ever-Ready and Mohawk brushes myself. The vintage razors and brushes along with several vintage aftershaves make wet shaving an experience that I look forward to getting every day.
I have never tried a vintage razor but I can see their appeal. In the meantime, I shall enjoy my shaves with my Karve Overlander- aluminum. Not exactly vintage but superbly machined nonetheless.
I just bought a Rex envoy in stainless from you guys. I really want the ambassador in rhodium. I’m either going to get that or a straight razor from you guys next. I’m on the fence as to which.
There really isn’t anything like it at all. I picked up an old fatboy in a local antique store and used it for years. I sent it into RE because it needed some tuning and I figured I’d get id go ahead and get it replated. That made the experience even better.
So glad you did this video Matt! I originally felt the same way about using a vintage Gillette but I was so drawn to the esthetics of them especially the 195. I thought how good could a razor be that was selling for a $1.95. I finally bit the bullet 4 years ago and bought a fatboy with the case and blades. I was totally wrong! The quality, balance and functionality of this razor is incredible! Of course my journey continued with vintage razors and have been lucky to find many different ones that are in excellent shape!
I’ve got most of the vintage Gillettes, including the Fatboy, the Slim, and the Toggle, but right now, my favorite safety razor is the GEM Clog Pruf. Sometimes I want a quick shave without shaving soap and just with shaving oil. The GEM Clog Pruf is the best for shaving oil.
hello, I have a slim that has a rhodium coating made by you. it has a problem and it doesn't close well, it gets stuck when closing, it doesn't do the 1/4 rotation. can you send me some plans to take it apart to build it.thanks
Yes, I do love these razors, and have enjoyed most of the ones shown in the video. (Btw, was that a late '40s Aristocrat I saw, or was I confused. I also thought the short comb bar handle New from the 30s looked particularly beautiful in the video, FWIW.) The "Milord" of the video has end caps, and no smooth band at the bottom of the handle upon which should be inscribed "Patent Nos. on Package." Might this be just a gold plated 40s style Super Speed? Anyway. keep up the love, and best wishes to all.
My daily driver is the Merkur 39c, I pretty much stopped looking at new razors once I found it. I did pick up a 1966 Gillette Slim Adjustable which I use from time to time when I'm not rushed. Can you recommend a vintage slant that shaves in the ballpark of the Merkur? I'd definitely would enjoy trying a vintage slant that gives a good shave. Cheers, thanks Matt.
I use modern and vintage razors, my favourites are Globusmann, Gillette Slim Adjustable and of course Henckels Rapide. In terms of brushes I prefer the modern ones Wald, Yaqi, Plisson.
I sent an email to Razor Emporium a couple weeks ago asking if it’s possible to have a Gillette Slim head put onto the handle of a Fatboy? I have both and was wondering if this can be done. Thanks!
Mike. Please do a shaving review using a vintage SE using a GEM PTFE single edged blade. Maybe you could compare a 1912 GEM with a Clog Pruf or something similar. One is mild. One is a little more efficient. My daily driver is a 1924 ER Shovel head. I only use vintage SE’s. I also have a 1912 GEM razor. Educate us about GEMs, Ever Ready’s and the American Razor Company history. I know you have sensitive skin and are picky about what you shave with. Take one for the team. You have your Envoy if something doesn’t go right. You sale them. I am guessing you have used them but came to the conclusion they are excellent razors but not your favorite. That’s ok. Maybe you can make a GEM style razor. I’m dreaming now. I have enjoyed your videos for years and will continue too. I know you have a love for vintage double edged razors. Gillettes. Where’s the love for vintage SE’s. They seem to get little love. I don’t think there is a video of yours where the name Gillette is not mentioned at least once. I could be mistaken. I don’t think I have ever seen any actual shaving reviews where you shave with a vintage SE. Continue to shave good shaves.
How much can you re-align the stamped brass adjustable? I assume it can be bent back in shape...but I don't want to spend too much in restoration if it wont be like new.
Matt, & vintage collector/users. *Have you ever been tempted to open a 100-year-old blade wrapper with an image of King C Gillette and use just one of the blades?* I find I am often sorely tempted to be transported back to 1922...to use one blade in my open-comb New Standard. Pros and cons? Results, if you have? Using the razor is one experience, but combining that with a blade meant for it's era... Is that an enhancement or an accident waiting to happen?
@@RazorEmporium I have thought it was the 'idea' of the immersion into the history that fascinated me... Still curious if others have tried them. Some fine red wines age well.
Hi, I'm just getting into De shaving. I have a Mhule R89 which is nice. I would like to try a vintage razor but haven't got a clue where to start, so what is considered to be the best vintage De razor?
new is not always better, they made the to last back then. now we make so you must buy again. The same with vintage straight razors, today’s razors don’t come close. regards Mr Straight Razor
If all of these old razor designs were really that great they would still be making them. Think about it. I tried a few vintage razors to see what the hype was about, and they gave me the worst cuts I’ve ever had from shaving. If you want a good DE Razor get something modern like a Karve Overlander or a Leaf Twig.
Thanks for this video! You just can't beat the vintage Gillettes! The quality that went into them is unsurpassed! I have more vintage razors in my collection than modern! I figure one day it will be difficult to come by them so I acquire what I can now! The one left I will eventually purchase along the way is the Toggle. I have most of the rest. I hope to pass them all down to my son and other family members in the future. I go to antique shops and malls whenever possible! I have found wonderful deals and selections there! Either way if you purchase modern or vintage, it is far better than all those cartridge razors ending up in landfills! The blades on DE razors are easily recycled! Let's keep this hobby and way of life growing!!
It's great to shave with a piece of history. It's a lot like cooking in one of my Great-Grandmother's cast iron skillets. IYKYK. As far as acquiring and shaving with one, the best part is that if find you don't like it, you can sell it on and not lose money. You can even make a few bucks if you clean up a gunky razor and make it sparkle. If you've got a good eye, you can load a blade and you can tell if it's grossly misaligned. If it's not grossly misaligned, it won't cut you to ribbons, but you'll know it's a bit off when you shave with it. If you've got a good ear and feel, you'll notice audio and tactile feedback are a bit different from one side to the other. That's where the Razor Emporium Tuneup service comes in. A razor that has been tuned up is a great way to learn what feels right so when you try another razor you can tell if it needs work or not. I'm not a super collector but I have an F3 and a J4 Flair Tip, D1 Red Tip, E4 $1.95 Adjustable, and a 1941 Aristocrat. They all shave great except for the Aristocrat which I need to send in for a tuneup. I thought the Flair Tip was almost the ideal shave in a fixed aggression razor until I got the Red Tip.
I own over 50 vintage Gillette razors that I’ve bought over the course of the last 5 or 6 years and no two of them are the same.
I also bought my first Gillette in an antique shop, a 40’s super speed, and fell in love with the quality and craftsmanship. Your archive series taught me everything I needed to begin collecting. Thanks for everything you do Matt and RE team!
And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.”’
20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’
21 “This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”
Morning Matt. I was a Gillette user from back in the day, 1st razor was a "63 Slim Adjustable. I lost it while on board ship. It was replaced by the Red Cross with an Aluminum Tech back in '68 while in the Philippines. I kept that razor for several years. Bought another Slim Adjustable when I returned to the states and used it into the '80s. Like most I switched to the "new" era of shaving with the cartridge, and electric razors. About 8 yrs ago I heard about the wet shaving craze and decided to come back. couldn't find the old razor so I went to Ebay and found a pretty good '63 Gillette Slim. It was like meeting an old friend that you haven't seen in a long time. I have never looked back. I continue to collect Gillette razors, many of which RE has revamped for me, even customizing them for me. Thanks Matt for all that you do for the community.
Really wholesome.
when I was in the navy, the zippo company replaced my brass lighter, this story reminded me of that. I severly damaged the case, and it was thrown away by someone else, all I had was the insert part. I was mad because I wanted to send it back for the warranty, I emailed zippo and said all I have is the cartridge part, is this ok? they sent me a whole new brass lighter and didnt even ask for the old lighter. I kept that brass zippo for about 6 years after i left the navy and lost it while moving to another state. :( i wish i could find it.
It's 5am here in Texas. I love the thought of starting my day with an "esoteric thought"!
One more covert here. Fascinating how often I read these same comments. Modern cartridge razors are junk from the day of purchase. I too didn’t understand the excitement over vintage razors. A Merkur 33C ‘received as a gift immediately converted me to a DE shaver for life. Learning to use it led me to vintage Gillettes, which I never imagined could happen. That led me to Razor Emporium and eventually my Flagship razor, my Ambassador XL flanked by a modest and unintended collection of vintage Gillette safety razors. I love everyone one of them and will pass them down to my son and grandson and save them the aggravation of modern shave junk. What a scam we all fell into. As a comedic reminder of how we get steered around by marketeers, I kept the last “free” razor I received in the mail a few years back, a Gillette Fusion, a 5 bladed wonder that even vibrates!🤣 and now, I see they have a heated model!
The quality that comes out of Razor Emporium is remarkable, both their new razors as well as their revamps. Who would have ever thought there would be a market for 70 year old razors?
I own a 1956 flare tip speed shaver. It's from my birth year and I think it's about the type of Gillette that my father owned. When we sold off my parents estate nobody was wet. Shaving. Unfortunately I think his Gillette wound up in the dumpster. There's five kids and nobody knows what happened to it. Anyway, I bought mine and I've used it a number of times. It brings back and memories of my dad and makes me feel good. One day soon I'm going to send it to you to have it replayed it in rhodium. It still is very functional but could use some TLC. Thanks for what you do. It's why I choose your store and your products above most others. The education you provide is worth it. Cheers- Kevin
Awesome video Matt 🤩💈🪒😎✨💙🔥⚡️🌟❤️🔥⭐️
I didn’t understand what the fuss was about with vintage Gillettes till someone gave me an English Flared Rocket to try 6 months ago, I now own 10 including 2 Fatboys, a Slim Adjustable, 2 Super Speeds, and a number of English Gillettes. I really do not use modern razors anymore.
What's your favorite ?
@@John-lc2lz definitely the E3 Fatboy, its in mint condition and it really is the perfect razor
Same here! My first was the Slim Adj. G-1. When I bought and used an E-2 Fat Boy from Razor Emporium, I found the smoothest shave I ever had! I now have two Black Beauty s A-1, as well.
And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
Congrats - you're the winner of the Weekly T-Shirt give-away! Please contact us at help@razoremporium.com with your address and size and we will get it shipped out right away! Thanks everyone! Stay tuned next week for another giveaway! - Razor Emporium Team
You can't beat vintage Gillettes.they give the best shaves you can get. Another cool razor is early Shick Krona, awesome razor as well.
Just got my Gillette FATBOY 1961 nickel factory revamp back 2 days ago and really loved the shave. Something about shaving with an instrument the same age as me. The shave was great and your workmanship is incredible. Going to add a few more for sure. Great job Matt!
Sounds great!
I have 2 newer razors. Six older ones ranging from 1980 back to 1920. The oldest ones are simply fantastic. There is just something special about them.
Have a Fatboy, had it replated here in uk.
Use it a lot, as I do many of the newr ones.
Just wish we had a Emporium here in UK.
To get a good antique one were the plating is still OK is a toughy.
Similar shaving journey, which is why I enjoy RE so much. Started shaving in the 90s and most razors on the market sucked and usually cause irritation.
Started my vintage razor journey for a better shave, full stop.
Now I’m hooked and collect when I can. Vintage razors are the way to go. Thanks RE!
Apart from my Rex Ambassador, I tend to always reach for a vintage in my collection when it’s time for a shave. The search for a Slim adjustable online sent me down the rabbit hole 4 years ago, I’ve purchased 3 of them since, each from a different year in history. My three super speeds get regular use and so does my Fatboy, I love the versatility with each of them.
Dear Matt and Colleagues,
Today I have received the t-shirt you sent me.
Thank you very much 🙏
Months back you inspired me to try buying a vintage razor on eBay. I won an auction on two: Fatboy and 109. I mostly like using my Henson AL13+, but I occasionally use a vintage razor. Thank you for videos on how to clean up vintage razors.
I am so happy I switched to vintage wet shaving and your videos were very helpful. Your shop is amazing and the staff is extremely helpful. It reminds me of watching my Grandfather when I was young when looking clean shaved was important.
A large chunk of modern razors are based on vintage razors, so it’s good to see where they came from. Vintage razors are well-made, shave well, and as long as they are taken care of, will outlive all of us!
💯💯
I have the Fatboy prospector from you. Really like it. Just like with old mechanical watches their machining capabilities were amazing. They made quality products meant to last.
Over 200 razors in my collection. And my vintage Gillette's are among my favorite shavers! Many of which I'll never let go of!
Good morning! You don’t have to pitch to me-I have 3 Gillettes from you guys! 1 Fatboy rhodium, 1fatboy prospector, and 1 slim prospector. Super impressive razors! Lots of fun to shave with; and they deliver an excellent shave!
Thanks Matt.
Hi Matt! I’ve bought all my vintage Gillette’s at flea markets. Never paid over $10. My oldest is a 1911 OLD Open Comb😎
That is awesome!
I got into this crazy world because it was cheaper to buy the razor James Bond used in Goldfinger than the car. Now I just love the way they shave.
I think people assume that a modern CNC razor is automatically better because they're made so precisely, but not many capture that same Goldilocks geometry. Modern razors are usually on either end of the mild-aggressive spectrum, but the grandpas who gave us these whiskers used something in the middle.
When I started wet shaving all I wanted to do was try all the old razors and is mostly the reason I started to straight shave, these are words of wisdom!!! The older razors are never going to be remade and never like they were made back in the day… a lot of the work was done by hand and that’s one of the coolest things about them try one and see!!
Vintage Razors work, they work like the day they were made. I often wonder what all they hype is about some of the Modern Hyped Razor that cost mega bucks.
Maybe I am wrong but Vintage Gillette’s work at shaving off my Beard.
Looking forward to AZ Wet Shave Meetup Next Saturday.👍
The No.1 of my collection is my D1 Gillette Toggle that has NEVER been used. It is still in its box with the original blades.
I have 2 razors that I use, one is my Fatboy, which is 1 of 3 and the Rockwell 6S.
Good morning! Just woke up and was about to shave my with my vintage Schick Injector when I saw this, definitely agree that vintage stuff is a level above most ;)
Right on!
As most i was taught to use cartridge razors and was getting frustrated with the cost of blades so when Rick Harris started advertising a double edge razor I purchased one but wasn't happy how it did. Then one day looking on internet I came across Razor Emporium and purchased my first Gillette revamped razor.
Fell in love how well it shaved went back and purchased a red tip Gillette. These are all I use now and purchase all my blades from Razor Emporium. You won't go wrong with Their craftsmanship and prices.
I love my vintage razors and use some of them regularly. I have somewhere around 80-90 vintage razors from a 1904 Double Ring to my birth year/quarter collection from 1975 and tons in between.
I do have some old Gillette razors -- perhaps one of them is from the late 1940s, and the others are from the 1950s and 1960s. But I don't have a Fat Boy or any of the Gillette adjustables. I'm extremely fortunate that my uncle handed down these razors to me. I in turn will hand down my razors to someone.
The cool factor and quality are special from vintage razors. There are companies other than Gillette but they have the best of the best!
I have only shaved with my 1966 Gillette (year I was born) once, mostly because I bought it, from you of course, as a collector item. Maybe I should buy another for actually shaving! I was always kind of fascinated by them. My Dad, who did not live with us, always shaved with an electric razor and always had uneven stubble and my Grandfather was always very cleancut!
found this today. Bought a de at walmart on the shelf for $17. I had a cheap one in the past but this new one is briliant. much closer shave. much cleaner shave. alot less passes and now just to figure out what to do with razor burn. Still more comfortable than a halfass shave.
I guess we’re in tune. Last night I was thinking of a friend who just started wet shaving and is using a modern DE razor. He seems to be enjoying. I’ve been sending him random pics of my vintage DE Gillette’s. I really need to send him one. That all said I have a couple of the King C new razor that came out recently. One I bought another given to me by a Gillette retiree. They sent him one when they came out. He doesn’t use it and gave it to me. They’re nice. They’re mild. And in my search for a fun thing I put an old open comb bottom on it from a vintage and it really kicked it up a notch! The new long handle and new cap but old base.. I should send one to my buddy!
The vintage are my favs! I love using them, thanks for the video Matt!
I have several vintage DE and SE razors. Gillette, Schick, Gem, Keen Kutter, Rolls-Razor, Roller Razor, Ever-Ready... from the 1910's to the 1970's. I love them all. Don't get me wrong, I have several new ones too. Merkur Futur was my very first. Vision was my second.
Matt recently did a red tip for me in rhodium it is friggin amazing I can’t speak highly enough . If you have a eBay or hand me down razor having it revamped to enjoy and use is worth every penny!! Thanks Matt !!
Thanks for all great and honest videos you post! I've just got a Gillette Slim (1960s) from Ebay in excellent condition for less than $50. One of the top ports has a small chip on the nickel plating so I am planning to have it replated. All other parts look great and the shaver is very clean as well. Only one shaving so far but I got immediately impressed with how easy, safe and effective that was. I've been using straight razors for a while and always have to be extremely careful. The Slim is probably going retire my straight razor and it seems it will last forever.
I don't think you can be considered a shave enthusiast. For cryin out loud i don't like tto razors but have 3 vintage adjustables (2 gillette slim adjustables and a 109 adjustable). It's our heritage as men, especially if you're American. And if you're like me and don't like tto razors then get a tech, or old, or new. There's vintage for everybody.
Love vintage - I figure they were made for the 'everyman' at a time when they were the only option on the market - so chances are they were going to be OK! My first was a Gillette Fathandle and for fun I'm up to 4 or 5 U1/1974 razors - to match my birthday!!
I bought a rhodium plated fatboy from you and its my daily driver. I will eventually get a gold slim adjustable from you as well.
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Gillette Tech, the fat or flat handle made in USA - When made I do not know, but I inherited one. It was the first razor I used in the transition from disposable safety razors to double edge razor. Today I still use Gillette Tech but most of the time I use King C Gillette Double Edge Razor.
I have 8 vintage gillette razors in my den that get rotational use all of the time!
I have a pretty good size collection, for many of the reasons you mention in the video. Lately I have been favoring a fat handled Tech or a GEM Clog-pruf. The best part is finding birth year razors, I have one for both of my parents, my wife, and myself, even though we were born in the mid-80s. It's a great rabbit hole, but you need to know your budget and be realistic.
I love my Gillette Slim Adjustable, would love to get it revamped in future.
I have a 1960's Gillette Tech that still gets some use today. It has quite a different feel to my more modern razors, quite gentle and light.
This video makes me beam with pride! I think that 3-piece brass Gillette is the same razor I learned to wet shave on over 10 years ago and have been using ever since. Of course yours is in better shape. I'm so glad I learned this skill. Love your videos
I shave everyday with a Gillette Slim I1 in rhodium revamped by Razor Emporium. It is unbeatable in the quality of the shave when paired with a good blade. I have a small gathering of vintage razors, mostly Gillettes, and have covered my birth year. The few modern DE razors that I have just aren’t the same. I also have two modern slant razors which I reserve for mowing down more than two days growth, which is rare for me. I have revamped several old Ever-Ready and Mohawk brushes myself. The vintage razors and brushes along with several vintage aftershaves make wet shaving an experience that I look forward to getting every day.
I've used one for about a year now, I went back to a DE razor as my dad taught me to use one very many years ago!
I am pleased to confirmed every word that you say.... Quality quality quality
I have never tried a vintage razor but I can see their appeal. In the meantime, I shall enjoy my shaves with my Karve Overlander- aluminum. Not exactly vintage but superbly machined nonetheless.
I just bought a Rex envoy in stainless from you guys. I really want the ambassador in rhodium. I’m either going to get that or a straight razor from you guys next. I’m on the fence as to which.
There really isn’t anything like it at all. I picked up an old fatboy in a local antique store and used it for years. I sent it into RE because it needed some tuning and I figured I’d get id go ahead and get it replated. That made the experience even better.
So glad you did this video Matt! I originally felt the same way about using a vintage Gillette but I was so drawn to the esthetics of them especially the 195. I thought how good could a razor be that was selling for a $1.95. I finally bit the bullet 4 years ago and bought a fatboy with the case and blades. I was totally wrong! The quality, balance and functionality of this razor is incredible! Of course my journey continued with vintage razors and have been lucky to find many different ones that are in excellent shape!
I’ve got most of the vintage Gillettes, including the Fatboy, the Slim, and the Toggle, but right now, my favorite safety razor is the GEM Clog Pruf. Sometimes I want a quick shave without shaving soap and just with shaving oil. The GEM Clog Pruf is the best for shaving oil.
hello, I have a slim that has a rhodium coating made by you. it has a problem and it doesn't close well, it gets stuck when closing, it doesn't do the 1/4 rotation. can you send me some plans to take it apart to build it.thanks
No need. Clean with hot water, dish detergent and an old toothbrush.
Great message Matt. I love my Schick Krona and my Gillette Tech. Keep the videos coming. Have a great Friday and weekend.
Yes, I do love these razors, and have enjoyed most of the ones shown in the video. (Btw, was that a late '40s Aristocrat I saw, or was I confused. I also thought the short comb bar handle New from the 30s looked particularly beautiful in the video, FWIW.) The "Milord" of the video has end caps, and no smooth band at the bottom of the handle upon which should be inscribed "Patent Nos. on Package." Might this be just a gold plated 40s style Super Speed? Anyway. keep up the love, and best wishes to all.
I really enjoy my vintage razors !!!!
My daily driver is the Merkur 39c, I pretty much stopped looking at new razors once I found it. I did pick up a 1966 Gillette Slim Adjustable which I use from time to time when I'm not rushed. Can you recommend a vintage slant that shaves in the ballpark of the Merkur? I'd definitely would enjoy trying a vintage slant that gives a good shave. Cheers, thanks Matt.
I use modern and vintage razors, my favourites are Globusmann, Gillette Slim Adjustable and of course Henckels Rapide. In terms of brushes I prefer the modern ones Wald, Yaqi, Plisson.
I sent an email to Razor Emporium a couple weeks ago asking if it’s possible to have a Gillette Slim head put onto the handle of a Fatboy? I have both and was wondering if this can be done. Thanks!
No. Some parts are different.
I love my RedTip~
Gillette tech is my favorite vintage razor. It is so simple that it is the best compared to the slim and fat boy.
Well said.
Thank you, and keep up the good work.
Good Luck.
Thanks, you too!
Mike. Please do a shaving review using a vintage SE using a GEM PTFE single edged blade. Maybe you could compare a 1912 GEM with a Clog Pruf or something similar. One is mild. One is a little more efficient. My daily driver is a 1924 ER Shovel head. I only use vintage SE’s. I also have a 1912 GEM razor. Educate us about GEMs, Ever Ready’s and the American Razor Company history. I know you have sensitive skin and are picky about what you shave with. Take one for the team. You have your Envoy if something doesn’t go right. You sale them. I am guessing you have used them but came to the conclusion they are excellent razors but not your favorite. That’s ok. Maybe you can make a GEM style razor. I’m dreaming now. I have enjoyed your videos for years and will continue too. I know you have a love for vintage double edged razors. Gillettes. Where’s the love for vintage SE’s. They seem to get little love. I don’t think there is a video of yours where the name Gillette is not mentioned at least once. I could be mistaken. I don’t think I have ever seen any actual shaving reviews where you shave with a vintage SE. Continue to shave good shaves.
I've got the vintage. I like the new stuff better.
I do love my slims. Just a pinch less than my R razor.
I paid $30 for a Merkur what are you talking about?
yesterday i found an old razor, i have no clue on what brand it was or how old it is. thanks to you now i know that its a Gillette fatboy F2.😅
Email us help@razoremporium.com
How much can you re-align the stamped brass adjustable? I assume it can be bent back in shape...but I don't want to spend too much in restoration if it wont be like new.
A good amount. Check out our revamp impossible
IDK, a CNC machined static or adjustable is still better then stamped razor.
In what regard
@@RazorEmporium times change and we have the technology. If Gillette had cheap CNC tech back then they would use that instead of stamping.
These razors don't turn up in fleamarkets or antique stores very much anymore....it's rare
Matt, & vintage collector/users. *Have you ever been tempted to open a 100-year-old blade wrapper with an image of King C Gillette and use just one of the blades?*
I find I am often sorely tempted to be transported back to 1922...to use one blade in my open-comb New Standard.
Pros and cons? Results, if you have?
Using the razor is one experience, but combining that with a blade meant for it's era... Is that an enhancement or an accident waiting to happen?
Yes I've done it. They are horribly tuggy compared to anything today.
@@RazorEmporium I have thought it was the 'idea' of the immersion into the history that fascinated me... Still curious if others have tried them. Some fine red wines age well.
Matt, currently use Merkur 34c, what would you recommend for a vintage adjustable razor? I would buy from you. I see fatboy mentioned.
Slim!
@@RazorEmporium Gillette Slim Adjustable Double Edge Safety Razor | Prospector Edition?
Hi, I'm just getting into De shaving. I have a Mhule R89 which is nice. I would like to try a vintage razor but haven't got a clue where to start, so what is considered to be the best vintage De razor?
We have videos just on this. Get a super speed or a Fatboy to start
new is not always better, they made the to last back then. now we make so you must buy again. The same with vintage straight razors, today’s razors don’t come close. regards Mr Straight Razor
If all of these old razor designs were really that great they would still be making them. Think about it. I tried a few vintage razors to see what the hype was about, and they gave me the worst cuts I’ve ever had from shaving. If you want a good DE Razor get something modern like a Karve Overlander or a Leaf Twig.
...many of the modern built razors pale if compared to vintage ones....
One thing is for sure Matt ........ you know more things about Gillette razors than Gillette themselves !!
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👍 "promosm"
Thanks for this video! You just can't beat the vintage Gillettes! The quality that went into them is unsurpassed! I have more vintage razors in my collection than modern! I figure one day it will be difficult to come by them so I acquire what I can now! The one left I will eventually purchase along the way is the Toggle. I have most of the rest. I hope to pass them all down to my son and other family members in the future. I go to antique shops and malls whenever possible! I have found wonderful deals and selections there! Either way if you purchase modern or vintage, it is far better than all those cartridge razors ending up in landfills! The blades on DE razors are easily recycled! Let's keep this hobby and way of life growing!!
It's great to shave with a piece of history. It's a lot like cooking in one of my Great-Grandmother's cast iron skillets. IYKYK.
As far as acquiring and shaving with one, the best part is that if find you don't like it, you can sell it on and not lose money. You can even make a few bucks if you clean up a gunky razor and make it sparkle. If you've got a good eye, you can load a blade and you can tell if it's grossly misaligned. If it's not grossly misaligned, it won't cut you to ribbons, but you'll know it's a bit off when you shave with it. If you've got a good ear and feel, you'll notice audio and tactile feedback are a bit different from one side to the other. That's where the Razor Emporium Tuneup service comes in. A razor that has been tuned up is a great way to learn what feels right so when you try another razor you can tell if it needs work or not.
I'm not a super collector but I have an F3 and a J4 Flair Tip, D1 Red Tip, E4 $1.95 Adjustable, and a 1941 Aristocrat. They all shave great except for the Aristocrat which I need to send in for a tuneup. I thought the Flair Tip was almost the ideal shave in a fixed aggression razor until I got the Red Tip.