Thread: Halstaff In Ivory

This is a very nice shoulder less blade clad in ivory that I've had in my 'to do' box for quite awhile. The scales, although cracked on both sides were polished and re-pinned to maintain the razor's original look, and the blade was finished in a two-toned polished/satin that really enhances the look of a shoulder less blade IMO.

I've done a bit of searching for information about this company and have only been able to find the following information below. Perhaps one of our historians like Martin can find out more for us....

Halstaff & Hannaford:

William Halstaff started his business in 1825 at 68 Margaret Street, Cavendish Square, London, later moving it in 1838 to 228 Regent Street, London as Halstaff & Co.
In 1842, William Halstaff went into partnership with Thomas Charles Hannaford and the business became known as Halstaff & Hannaford. They mutually dissolved their partnership in 1858, however, the business continued trading under their name until 1898. In the same year, the business name was changed to Halstaff & Co, and it remained at the 228 Regents Street address until its final closure in 1908.




Here are some pics:

Like the two tone treatment on the blade.

Bob

A real beauty Mike. I too am a fan of the contrasting finishes. I just did one. A Greaves & Sons with an arris spine. I'll post some pictures in a bit.
Happy 4th!
Karl

Originally Posted by BobH

Like the two tone treatment on the blade.

Bob

Thanks Bob!

Originally Posted by karlej

A real beauty Mike. I too am a fan of the contrasting finishes. I just did one. A Greaves & Sons with an arris spine. I'll post some pictures in a bit.
Happy 4th!
Karl

Hey Karl! Thanks my friend. Can't wait to see the pics of that Greaves, and Happy 4th to you as well!

I'm going to hazard a guess here and say Halstaff did not make his own razors. Many London merchants had there razors made in Sheffield and branded with their name. They catered to the more well to do and the ivory scales are an indicator. Best guess on that blade is John Barber.

Originally Posted by BobH

Like the two tone treatment on the blade.

Bob

Absolutely agreed, the beautiful lines of this razor first stood out to me, then the two tone finish is just the perfect touch - gorgeous piece.

Having had a battle (losing, then lost) with that Palmera 14, I think I have a vague idea of the effort that went into producing a finish like that...beautiful.

Nice job!



Filler

Originally Posted by karlej

I'm going to hazard a guess here and say Halstaff did not make his own razors. Many London merchants had there razors made in Sheffield and branded with their name. They catered to the more well to do and the ivory scales are an indicator. Best guess on that blade is John Barber.

I believe you to be correct Karl. Although I do find mention that they were manufacturers of 'very high end' dressing boxes ( jewelry, writing etc.) they most likely did contract out their cutlery wares and fine silver work. Your guess on 'Barber' seems to me to be a very good guess. Fine looking razor BTW...

Originally Posted by Phrank

Absolutely agreed, the beautiful lines of this razor first stood out to me, then the two tone finish is just the perfect touch - gorgeous piece.

Having had a battle (losing, then lost) with that Palmera 14, I think I have a vague idea of the effort that went into producing a finish like that...beautiful.

Thanks Andrew...I'm always glad to see your posts and appreciation. The contrasting finish does take a bit more effort (as Karl can attest) but for me it is worth the extra attention for these really nice shoulder less grinds. My photography is always wanting, but held in hand this razor really is a beauty, and shaves an absolute dream. Very balanced and maneuverable, as would be expected by the 'upper class' customer that could have afforded such a piece from a high end retailer on Regent street in old London.

Nice work again you have been busy. I like the razor display stand. did you make it? I might steal that idea Hats off again to you sir.