Thread: Saving Shekels

Gentlemen,

Sometimes we forget how many shekels we save by shaving the old fashioned way. By shaving as gentlemen.

I have used this particular bar of Tabac shaving soap more than six months and I think it has another two to go. As part of the regular rotation, I use several other soaps and creams, but the Tabac has been the workhorse.

Had I wasted my shave with a can of that vile foamy substance popular these days with modern shavers, I probably would have polluted the world with several cans of it already at an overall high cost. The Tabac cost around $10 or $12, and it's also top of the line.

Two of my brushes have more mileage on them than a '39 Cadillac, but they still caress my Hollywood face with a rich lather, and will continue to do so for many more miles.

My razors have cost a few additional shekels, but, if taken care of, they should last me for the rest of my life. They are also works of art. If you please, I would rather look at a Monet every morning than a highway billboard sign.

Most importantly, there is no price tag on the pleasure I receive from my daily old fashioned shaving ritual.

Regards,

Obie

The biggest investment is getting the right razors, which unfortunately is a trial and error kind of deal at least for me. I am not a collector so something like a 7 day set is what I am aiming for. Good thing is one can always unload the razors they do not like, same with soaps. Also one can never go wrong with proven brands like Tabac, TOBS etc. As far as savings, a year worth of Gillette cartridges is equal to a nice razor, that will last a lifetime or two.

Saved?! Before i discovered straights i had a vintage DE. I'd get three to five shaves to a blade before i bothered to change it. I used KOS stuff with it & that lasted ages.
Since i discovered straights (just over a year ago) i've managed to spend around $500 on hones, $200 on strops, $200 on soaps & creams & $1500 on razors. These are very conservative estimates.

I know what you mean. It could have been cheap. I just didn't bank on falling in love with it!