Thread: Flea Market hints and tips

Originally Posted by Leatherstockiings

I am not sure about magnification being necessary. The kind of damage I was referring to would be visible to the naked eye, like hairline cracks. You might not see them under poor light but become apparent under better lighting.

I make good use of a small magnifying glass and a jeweler's loupe. Point out imperfections to the seller and get some dollars off the asking price.

Originally Posted by Martin103

With having the razor in your hand you could look for, cracks on the blade, movement of the blade within the scales, hone wear, you could put the razor on a flat surface to see any warping, hidden rust mostly around the pivot pin, pitting close to the edge. That said my best advise would be if any doubt just walk away there will be plenty more.

why does it seem that the pivot point is the first place to rust.

Capillary action, due to the design of razors.

Jonathan

Excellent, thanks for all the tips! Will head down to spitalfields (dragging the missus along) this time next week, and let you know if I snag anything!

Also look for smiles in razors. some smile are not worth the time to take out. and if they have more then one ALWAYS try and bundle. and never be afraid to offer a lower price. most people at the antique stores know nothing about straight razor and will take the money offered. I buy many of my razor from antique stores and do very good on it. and many people ask why do you want these things? and I always tell them to shave with, and it blows there mind! I guess they thought people don't shave with these anymore.

A note on haggle and negotiations. Be careful with your wording. When you say "I'll give you 30" they might react different than if you said "Will you take 30?"

of course the wont want to take 30, they want 50, but it will make them more willing to meet you in the middle at 40. Of course, if the blade is only WORTH 30, that is a different matter!
Don't be afraid to make offers, but be mindful of insulting the salesman. Good luck!

Thank you all.

Will let you know if I snag anything later this week!