$500 to buy a razor, what would you buy
At that price point you are well above and beyond what is needed for a stellar shaver. There are tons of vintage razors of superb quality to be had for much less. So, with that kind of cash we are talking desirable design, collectability, exotic scale-materials and other factors. My choice for such a razor would have to be a Filarmonica Especial para barbas duras. Or if rarity plays a part, a C-mon Filarmonica in 8/8. That is if you can find one besides mine;)