Thread: The Saga of the Maximillian

Ladies and gentlemen:

The 100-degree temperature choked in a blanket of 90 percent humidity. What, was I humping the bush with the infantry in Vietnam? Enough already, because I already had had the pleasure in 1967.

I was taking my second shower of the day, this one using sweat for water. It wasn't fun, especially since much of the morning I had come up empty in the giant flea market. No vintage Gillettes, and God forbid there should be a straight razor, even a half-dead one.

I found a 4/8" Solingen-made razor produced for the Quality Barber Supply Co. of Illinois. I don't much care for the 4/8" blade, but this thing was cute with its brown handle and decorative metal caps. Besides, I had to show something for my effort. The man said $20, but I walked away with it for $5. I also spent $2 on an Old Spice soap mug — I collect shave mugs.

Despite my failure for the day half way through the flea market, I had a gut feeling I would hit gold. Then it happened. The man had a box full of dead razors, and the ugliest things you ever saw. Then I saw the massive Wade & Butcher. For a moment I thought I was reliving my adventure at another flea market several weeks ago, where I also landed a Wade & Butcher.

This one was big, 7/8" or maybe a bit larger. The scales looked as if they were crushed under a tank, and the rust and the stains on the blade made me think of a knife dug up from an ancient tomb. Again, as I had at the other flea market where I landed my first Wade & Butcher, I thought of my friend Maximillian, and that if anybody could dress this derelict in a tuxedo, he would be the one.

Maximillian did. Here is the razor, which I have named The Maximillian.

One final note: I have not clicked any buttons yet. I spent half the morning trying to load the picture Max was kind enough to send me. He even sent me instructions on how to post. If they don't show up with this post, I'm going to turn on the blasted TV and watch the news — which will really heighten my depression.

Regards,

Obie