Thread: Old Razors (1700's-1800's) - what to look for and how to find them?

Hey All - I've recently been reading a few threads where people have found magnificent treasures. Razors that are nearly 200 years old (or older) and they're still around, still being used - just an amazing thought. As someone had posted in a previous thread "the thought that ten generations ago someone cherished that razor, and now it's in your hands for safekeeping."

I'd love to start looking for one of these older pieces, but aside from the few threads I've read, I'm not sure what brands to looks for, or where to find them (for example I've searched eBay for Sheffield and Wade & Butcher, then paged through the many results looking for the few tang stamps I'm familiar with, but thinking there might be a better way).

I thought someone here might be able to offer some guidance (brands, stamps, search methods, anything would be great) - if so, much appreciated!

Wade and Butcher isn't particularly early brand. Here's a list of various manufacturers along with dates of operations mostly from sheffield
Straight Razor Manufacturers and Dates of Operation

You probably want to peruse the razor database in the wiki, as well as the various 'razor clubs'.


Keep in mind that most very old razors are lousy shavers. Just the result of bad technology.

This is exactly what I was hoping to find, thanks Gugi!

In regards to shave quality - I'm sure it'll give me a better shave today, then I'll be able to give myself in 200 years.

Only if you have a very pessimistic view of life. I personally plan 200 years from now to still be in good shaving shape and have stocked up on straight razors accordingly.

If you are trying to find maker's names take a look the the Stub Tailed Shavers razor club. The stub tails are made in the era you mentioned in your post.

Regards - Walt

Thank you Walt - there's lots of great info in here!

I own two razors from the late 1700s and they are both unnamed (i.e. not maker identified). I was only able to date them by having our resident expert, Manah, evaluate them (thanks again, Manah!). I only mention them being unnamed because if you search by makers alone, you may miss a gem. I noticed a razor exactly like mine listed on eBay recently, so they do exist occasionally. But be careful, there are also many hucksters selling so-called colonial era razors that are undoubtedly fakes. Good luck searching.

Originally Posted by diyguy

I own two razors from the late 1700s and they are both unnamed (i.e. not maker identified). I was only able to date them by having our resident expert, Manah, evaluate them (thanks again, Manah!). I only mention them being unnamed because if you search by makers alone, you may miss a gem. I noticed a razor exactly like mine listed on eBay recently, so they do exist occasionally. But be careful, there are also many hucksters selling so-called colonial era razors that are undoubtedly fakes. Good luck searching.

Hi diyguy, this is really great information to know and use when hunting for old treasure. Any chance you could post some pics so we can learn as well from your treasures as well?
Thanks on behalf of us all
Shane

It is quite easy to spot the really old ones on ebay. Look out for seller descriptions like:

"it's really old"
"as used by Genghis Khan and his mongol horde"
"genuine ye olde razor"
"pretty sure this is pre civil war"
"looks really old"
"bronze age, prehistoric razor as used by early hominids to shave down thus increasing speed when chased by velociraptors"

Easy!

James.

Originally Posted by Jimbo

It is quite easy to spot the really old ones on ebay. Look out for seller descriptions like:

"it's really old"
"as used by Genghis Khan and his mongol horde"
"genuine ye olde razor"
"pretty sure this is pre civil war"
"looks really old"
"bronze age, prehistoric razor as used by early hominids to shave down thus increasing speed when chased by velociraptors"

Easy!

James.

Awwww, you make it sound so easy..........pulling my leg that is. Now pulling fingers is something entirely much more dangerous! :P