Thread: Wanamaker Special by Torrey Razor Co.

I found a razor online that I need a little more information about if anyone can help. It's called The Wanamaker Special. The name is on both the blade and what looks to be black celluloid scales. It was made by the Torrey Razor Company. The description said it could be a late 1800 or early 1900 c. razor, that seems unlikely to me.
I live in Philly and think it would be cool to have the blade since the Wanamakers started here and everyone knows the building and the pipe organ and Christmas light show they have. It's listed at $50 but I'm not sure it's worth that much. I know that being able to get a razor I have my mind set on adds personal value; but what would the average Torrey, in good condition, go for?

Torreys are all great shavers. Well, I should say I have never heard of a Torrey that is not a great shaver. If she's in good shape and you have the cash in hand, I would say it is worth the money. That said, not too long ago there were a lot of Torreys going on ebay for around $30ish. If you wait and look, you may find a better deal, but I don't think grabbing that one would be something you would regret.

If it's in good shape and it sounds like it might be a special edition maybe could be? Then yes it's worth it and they are excellent shavers.

I've already asked holli4 so I figure I should throw the other question out here too. Is there any way to find out when it was made, and what would be a good price for either a Genco Master Barber or a Genco Army & Navy?

If you could post a photo of the razors you're looking at it would be easier to give advice on whether that particular specimen is worth buying. All that you have mentioned are reputable brands but price depends on condition and to some extent who is on ebay on that given day.

These should be the links for all three.

http://www.bladesnewold.com/catalog/...72/5076507.htm

http://www.bladesnewold.com/catalog/...72/5076515.htm

http://www.bladesnewold.com/catalog/...72/5076538.htm

I'd say the Genco's look pretty good for the money, but keep in mind that you'll likely need to have them honed. The Wanamaker... the price is a bit higher because it's a special one. That's your call, really.

Interesting!

I got a Genco on the bay a week back and when it came to me it was marked Wanamaker Special.

It's funny how these things work out :rofl:.

What is the one you were looking at like? Mine is a 4/8 which is a pity as I'm a 5/8 and 6/8 man. It's also not as pretty as that one. It just says Wanamaker special on the blade with Wanamaker and Special under the name. I like the presentation on that blade better and the engraving in the scales is attractive.

I don't have a camera worth using so it might be a while before I can upload pics, otherwise I would have shared them with the community right now.