Thread: Darwin Cobalt Steel

Hello everyone. I came across this Darwin Straight Edge Cobalt Steel blade with a Robeson ShurEdge sheath.
The razor seems to be in very good condition and appears to be gently used.
Could someone provide me with the approximate year of manufacture and approx value?

Thanks
Rob

Hi Rob-Welcome to the forum. A pic would be nice, as we all love to look at razor porn, but we don't do valuations here; it's just forum policy. But if you spend enough time haunting ebay, you get a pretty good idea of what comparable razors fetch (usually not as much as you think unless they're very rare and sought after by collectors).

Thank you Scott. I can’t seem to figure out how to post a pic

Without a pic... Guessing an American made razor from early 1900s. For value, its worth what you are willing to spend. Or as said, look up others on ebay and see what they sold for.

sorry if this offends, but well maybe not sorry a razor or any item you buy is only worth what someone will pay. if you paid for it you already know its worth to you, asking someone else say me, 2$ now you see why we don't do valuations. get it pro honed( not a clown who sharpens knives ) and give it a whirl Tc

Although this link makes no mention of straight razors it is about Darwin razors with a mention of Darwin cobalt steel.

https://vintagerazorcollection.squar...rwin-universal

From other sources on the net it seems like Darwins Ltd manufactured razors from circa mid 1930s to Circa some time in the 1950s. It could be that your straight razor was made somewhere in that time frame.

Bob

Thought the Darwin was made as a rival to the Rolls Razor ( stropping in a box + 2 blades & handle) & double-edged safety razors only.
First str8 edge Darwin I've seen
Cobalt steel is hard. I have a Rolls Razor Standard from 1922-1927 with a blade marked as being cobalt steel. Later blades are inscribed "Best Sheffield Steel". They all are, IMHO, difficult to get shaving sharp in the RR box.The thinking was probably that a blade made from tough steel would keep its edge & require less frequent honing.
FYI I use a 1000 grit oilstone then go on with 3000 & 10000 grit oilstones. Honing is finished on a plain flat bathroom ceramic tile. Stropping is on CrOx rubbed onto a linen strip. & finally on a leather belt. My str8 razors simiarly but I now tape the spines / backs.Patience is definitely an ingredient in the sharpening process.
Regards