Myth busting through social interaction...
Well, the joys of growing up near Solingen and knowing some of the old craftsmen there...
- Called Herkenrath, asked them who made the #14 blanks. They did, no one else. First mystery solved.
- Ascertained that they made blanks for the Latin markets. Second mystery solved.
- Called a few of the old hands, asked them if they knew anything about the Latin #14 blades. Learned more than I cared for, but here are the highlights (further mysteries solved):
- Filarmonica, Palmera and other Latin market razors were ground and etched in Solingen. Quote: "Well, yes, export quality. Like those laughable Dubl Ducks which our apprentices ground, and most Puma [censored]." One has to keep in mind that this used to be a world leading industry with craftsmen who took pride in their products and who did not suffer even mediocre products gladly.
- Logos were designed with a single purpose in mind: Sales (oh, really?). Quote: "Well, nobody spoke a word of Spanish, so we put on them what would thought would sell well... Yes, it's a bit shameful, but back then, nobody cared..."
Funnily enough, I recently came across a few (approx four dozens) of Juvenia #14 blades. Aimed at the Latin American market. Much thinner grind with well pronounced ridges, ie the best you could get back then (and, in all likelihood, today).
So, that was fun. And easy to do. I wonder why nobody else ever bothered before. It might have saved a lot of people a lot of money, given that decent #14 blades from more reputable (quote, but also my personal experience) makers can be had for €15-50, if you know exactly what you are looking for.