Quote Originally Posted by Magpie View Post
I have a single razor in my collection that I have not been able to bring myself to use. It is a NOS IXL razor with silver leafing in the scales, and all things immaculate. The only time I have seen its like was when somebody posted that 7 day set with the ivory scales! But it really bothers me owning something that I cant use. I understand your dilemma. I have to say, if I thought a museam would pay me enough for it, I would go buy a less pristine version just so I could still have one without worrying how I destroyed the last surviving example.
I appreciate your dilemma, and I disagree with your thesis. This Noah-like mission to save the "last surviving example" (if, indeed, it is) is laudable, but misdirected. Like the other parts of a wetshaver's equipment, razors are consumables. Not expendables, "consumables"... designed from the start to be used-up. Granted, the major "consumption" of a razor occurs during honing, but years of use and honing will eventually render the blade unusable. From my experience, the "destruction" of a straight razor might go on for fifty years, or more, before any signs of its change become visible. If it were mine, I wouldn't make it my "daily shaver"; but it would be a regular member of a monthly rotation.

Smooth shaving!