Quote Originally Posted by KarloT View Post
I'm quite new to this so forgive the noob question. This thread isn't meant to ask which one is better, but more what makes them different?

My first impressions are that modern razors would probably have better metallurgy, while vintage would likely possess better grinds and workmanship since more craftsmen were building razors back then.

Also, why do certain vintage brands enjoy such high demand? I noticed that Wade and Butcher commands both admiration and premium. Filarmonica seems to sell for a bit of money as well. I'm sure these are all slick shavers but is this a case of swelling demand meeting dwindling supply?

For the record, my first razor is a modern 6/8 but I have two vintage shavers in the mail (a 5/8 Williams Sheffield and a 6/8 Christensen).
Yes, you would think modern razors would have better metallurgy but I think it is a draw on that. Now as then you need good quality steel not some special formula and they had the same good steel back then too. The edge might go to vintage because there were lots of workers with years of practice making and grinding razors but now there are few workers left at the old skill levels.

Some vintage razors demand much higher prices than others because they get talked up and are the flavour of the day if you are looking at pure shaving ability. A good razor is a good razor no matter the make imho. OTH rarer models in excellent to NOS condition are naturally in the premium price range.

Personally I like vintage razors because I enjoy putting them back into service and shaving with a piece of history. Enjoy your your new vintage razors.

Bob