Thread: History of the Gold Bug

Does anyone know the history behind the "Gold Bug" razors? I am in the process of a restoring a couple of them and thought it would be fun to have the facts behind the time period and manufacturer of these great shavers.

As far as I know, they were made in Germany, For distribution in the US by A White. The were gold plated. This was to help stop rusting. the handles were clear so that you could see the blade. There are two types, the Gold Bug, and the Baby Gold bug, a smaller version that had a lady bug on the coffin. I don't know exactly what year the were produced, But my wifes grandfather owned one, and he died about 28 years ago. Hope that helps.

Phil

Thanks for the info, the Gold Bug is probably my best shaver at the moment, kind of got 3 that are tops at the moment. I'm also thinking of getting another one in high condition or just in good enough shape to have replated. They just look good

Phil...thanks for the background, that's really great info.

Chef - I agree, these razors shave incredibly well. I am at the point in my restoration of one of them where all I need to do is replate the tang and spine and it's ready to be assembled. I'll be sure to post pics after it's complete.

Looking forward to it

Here is a gold bug that has been restored.

so is the entire blade gold plated?

Originally Posted by floridaboy

Here is a gold bug that has been restored.

That's a very nice restoration. Yeah, looks like the whole blade is plated. I've seen them restored with just the spine nad tang coated...does anyone know the way they were originally plated?

Yes, it is all gold plated. Traveller amy be a better person to explain plating. maybe he will chime in. he is the one who plated it for me. Really nice razor to shave with.

Phil