This razor is for sale, and I would like to know if I should stay away from it. What is this rainbow color on the blade?
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This razor is for sale, and I would like to know if I should stay away from it. What is this rainbow color on the blade?
Attachment 126595
Stay away! probably a sign of the steel temper to be gone.
I'd be inclined to follow Martin's advice.
The colour might just be iridescence from the light catching a film of oil, but I don't like the look of the burn mark on the scales. Wonder how it got there, and whether it means that someone heated the blade too for some curious reason.
Regards,
Neil
Hmm... could be that it was buffed and has microscopic striations that reflect a rainbow, like a CD does. Or maybe the light source is doing something weird. What I hope it ISN'T is discoloration from heating, like you see on motorcycle exhaust pipes. That would have wrecked the steel for sure.
This is all speculation. I hope someone with better thoughts chimes in soon.
Hmm, I don't think that's from heat.
The "rainbow" seems to repeat itself, my guess would be some oil or other solvent on the blade.
Edit; I do remember I've seen this type of rainbow on blades that has been sterilized by dipping in alcohol and set on fire
If in doubt, ask the seller for more info and more pics.
I would also ask about the burn mark on the upper scale near the logo and whether that is a crack in the scale at the pivot pin.
Regards,
Neil
Her's the auction, would you buy it? :Antique Spartacus Thiers Issard France 889 5 8 Straight Razor with Box | eBay
Why take a chance on a commonly found razor?