Originally Posted by
Steel
I am not a historian as some are on this forum but I think the history of Mappin & Webb is very interesting and they are STILL very much in business as one of Britain’s finest jewelry companies including being the “Crown Jewlers”. All of their razors were top of the line made with precious materials such as silver, ivory, alligator skin boxes, etc. The following is taken from their web site since the OP asked. Other Mappin & Webb items are also very collectible such as luggage, silverware, personal grooming items, watches, and many other items commanding high dollar price tags. Enjoy.
“Mappin & Webb is a true British treasure with over 241 years of tradition and historical significance in the world of silver and jewellery. Renowned for combining timeless craftsmanship with superior quality and contemporary design, for over two centuries we have produced exquisite jewellery, elegant silverware, watches, glassware and the unique lifestyle accessories that have long been at the heart of affluent British society.....
1904 - The Maharaja Raj Rama Bhawaur Singh was so taken with Mappin & Webb's exquisite silverware that he commissioned a complete silver bedroom service, including a four-poster bed, tables and chest of drawers, all lavishly decorated with cherubs. Displayed in the window of the Oxford Street boutique, it drew such a great crowd of curious onlookers that the police requested its removal in the interests of public safety....
1911 - Started an enduring tradition of creating commemorative silver pieces for landmark Royal occasions....
1960- Mappin & Webb serviced Winston Churchill's pocket watches and produces solid gold ashtrays for his political office....
2012 - The company's longstanding royal connection was further cemented by the appointment of Mappin & Webb's master craftsman in 2012, to the position of Crown Jeweller.The Crown Jeweller is the custodian of the Crown Jewels and is responsible for preparing them for the State opening of Parliament and other state occasions. The appointment of Mappin & Webb's craftsman to the role of Crown Jeweller is a great honour for this truly British brand....
Mappin & Webb's relationship with the Monarchy began in the late 19th Century and was formalised when Her Majesty Queen Victoria first granted a Royal warrant to Mappin & Webb as silversmiths, in 1897, the year of Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee. Mappin & Webb has held a Royal warrant as Silversmiths to each of the five subsequent sovereigns. Today the brand holds a
Royal Warrant as Jewellers, Goldsmiths and Silversmiths to Her Majesty The Queen and as Silversmiths to His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales.”
A very rich history indeed. The ivory sets I have in alligator skin and rare wood boxes are some of my favorites because of this history.
You see, a razor can be a simple inexpensive tool and it can also be much more. YMMV (That’s for you Ace)