Thread: Hello, Newbie Needing Help

Hello everyone, I'm a newbie to the site and straight razors. My dad has had a Wade & Butcher Keen shaver boxed in a drawer for years, no idea of its history or anything! Can anyone help date the razor and give details on its construction and materials used, I'm guessing the handle is pearl? It certainly looks like a lovely item to hold onto. https://goo.gl/photos/CntFM3BV5DH2zpst7
https://goo.gl/photos/4MCb159D625GbYxL9
https://goo.gl/photos/ryvvwMnomTfj5iYX8
https://goo.gl/photos/4r6v9viQBH16qG9f9

yes, very nice! the scales are pearl and we know it was made after 1891 because of the country of origin being stamped on the tang. maybe someone with some more detailed knowledge will chime in shortly. Was it used by your dad or grandfather? heirlooms razors are always a treasure.

Tintin is correct heirloom razors are a true treasure. About the tang stamp, in general razors marked Sheffield, England are dated after 1890. Glen proved that is not always the case in a previous thread although it seems most of the time to ring true. You are correct those are Mother of Pearl scales and I believe that is silver in the center of the scale.
My best guess would be late 1890 to early 1900. Seems like most of the MOP scales are warped pretty bad and need liners during restoration work.
If this in fact is an heirloom razor and you have not restored a razor I recommend sending it to someone with good reputation to have this blade reworked. It's nothing against you, but these razors seem to bring decent money and if an heirloom it is pretty priceless IMO. Ally of damage can be done if one does not understand what they are doing. Beautiful razor and be glad your dad had that tucked away

That is one pretty heirloom.

That is a beautiful razor. If I were you it would be sent out for a restoration/cleaning and then enjoy the shave. Wade & Butchers give a very fine shave