Thread: Thoughts on Henckels 70 1/2

I've found a J. A. Henckels staright razor that is said to be unused.

Here are a couple of pictures from the seller:




The edge seems smooth without cracks or dents from the pictures, though I haven't checked its sharpness.

"70 1/2" is inscribed on the tang, along with the brand name.

It has the same black scales with the twins logo on it, and comes in the same type of box with same inscriptions (though white instead of grey) as the one on this ebay listing:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/NOS-Straigh...y/182802248987

The blade is not as wide, and has a different number on its tang.

So... Since the one I've found will cost me $45, you will probably all suggest me to buy it, which I will probably do, however, I would like to hear your opinions on this razor anyway. Is it one of the new ones? Not vintage? I've read that many here think the new ones are not as good, but are they bad, or usable nevertheless?

Thank you!

It's a Henckel and from just the photo it looks to be in good condition. I would be willing to bet that once it's honed it'll shave just fine. I have some of the old ones and some of the newer ones and they all do a fine job on the beard. Looks as if you scored a fine razor.

Looks good but not unused.

Originally Posted by RezDog

Looks good but not unused.

Perhaps the images have lost some resolution once uploaded, but when I zoom in on the originals, I don't see any wear on the blade or the edge of the tang from honing or stropping. However, it has a few black dots that might be due to water damage, or humidity from storage. What made you think it had been used?

Could just be the picture but the tip looks blunted. Not as pointy as id think a new one should be. But im no expert for sure.

Used, not used. I don't know. There isn't any hone wear. And I've never had a Henckels that wasn't a great shaver. If you're ok with a 5/8 round tip you probably won't be disappointed.

Any thoughts on its age? Vintage or newer model?

It is an older model, probably 50’s.
I say it looks used because the patina is worn off where the scale passes over the tang, indicating it got a lot of opening and closing. The shoulder is very dark, which is often from soap and use, and there are a few signs. Worn, no the blade shows no sign of wear. It is in good condition, but not NOS or unused. It will be a good shaver and likely out last us all if treated properly.

Definitely used. The photo's you are showing and the link to the razor you are showing are 2 completely different razors.

Hmmmm. I had not checked the link and my evaluation of the condition was purely for the pictures of the 70 1/2 and not the 472 in the link.