What Say You?

[entropy1049]

Just picked this razor up at an antique swap meet. Set me back $7.50...I didn't bother to dicker. I haven't seen much info on the W&B "Celebrated Congress" but it seems like a good candidate for some degree of restoration.

The scales had contracted enough over the years I did have to make a new lead wedge. I used some bulls-eye washers as I didn't have any replacements for the thin grommet type washers it was equipped with originally, and didn't want to damage the originals during the re-assembly process as they are pretty delicate. I did of course keep all of the original materials, and I'm sure someone with more skills than I could re-incorporate the original wedge/pins/washers.

So, what says the Peanut Gallery? Is this worth shelling out more money for a legit top end restoration, or should I call it a day, hone it up, and get to shavin' with it?

[mainaman]

Good looking scales, blade is not good IMO.
That very dark spot close to the heel does not look good at all, at least on picture.

[entropy1049]

Good looking scales, blade is not good IMO.
That very dark spot close to the heel does not look good at all, at least on picture.

In better light it looks like a low spot in the bevel. There are some nicks along the edge that I'll have to hone out anyway, and my guess is by the time I get the nicks out the low spot will go away with them. I suppose I'll see when I set the new bevel!

[guitstik]

Nope, not worth the effort that it would take to bring it back to shave ready restoration status. As the only certified official unofficial straight razor disposal expert on this forum you should send it to me with a check (I do take PayPal) for the disposal fee and I will take care of the problem for you.

[bongo]

Entropy, when I look at this blade I have to say I'm a "glass half full" kinda guy
You'll probably lose some blade-width getting to clean steel but....Go for it !!

[RezDog]

It is definitely a case of "better check that you can get a good clean bevel on it" before you spend any time or cash on it.

[entropy1049]

As the only certified official unofficial straight razor disposal expert on this forum

Wowzer, you must be a busy guy!

[KindestCutOfAll]

Excellent catch. The scales are fantastic!

... and you are right. With some honing the edge should be returned to shaving condition.

[Biggreg]

That's a find, and for $7 I would definatly have it restored. You should be able to find somene to do the work for $35, + $7=$42 and Bam! You got a great looking W&B. Hell, if I wasn't deployed I'd restore it for you. The blade has two spots along the edge near the heal and towards the toe, some touch ups on the 1' belt sander and those disappear quick. The etching along the blade can be saved, you may not get a mirrored finish, but most of the blimishes will come out. I'd send it out.

Big Greg