Thread: Bismarck Razor Works

Hello all,

I recently became the proud owner of a Dovo "Bismarck" in red scales.
I was fascinated by the quality of the razor - as well as the shave it gave me. But, I knew absolutely NOTHING about razors though when I purchased it. It was just "perdy" and ima newbie - so that should tell you a lot! I totally got it because it was nice looking. I was pleasantly surprised upon receipt - and when I tried it for the first time.

All that said, one day I was surfing "an auction site" (who shall remain unidentified) and happened upon a razor that looked to be the forerunner of the one I held in my hand. A bit different in blade design though. Could that be, there was another "Bismarck" out there...., I asked myself? Hmmmm. A Bismarck razor that came to life BEFORE Dovo got their hands on it? Interesting.

"Yes was the answer!
That began my quest to find out more about "the original". So, where does one go to find out things but the NET & I went surfing the search engine/s and found very little on them. I discovered, though, that Dovo purchased the "trademark" from Bismarck Razor Works when they closed their doors. Guess where I found that info?

Another place I found a tidbit of info - and a picture was here.

There's not much on the original company AT ALL. Anyone know more about them? Please edify me if you would, and provide links, pictures, anything. I'd really appreciate it.

As soon as I have some new pictures to post of mine I will post my Dovo and it's Daddy/father, the real deal from Germany's trademarked company, BISMARCK Razor Works!

~Phil

Those old Bismarks were very nice razors. I have heard tell that the ones that say "Registered" on the tails are supposed to be the best. But I've only shaved with the Registered ones, so I couldn't say...

I've got some of the old Bismarck and one from holli4 honed to perfection. Found this here ;

Arthur Müller, Solingen-Ohligs, Talstrasse 61 in 1922, 1925, 1928 and 1932, Talstrasse 61 in 1939. Brand names: 'Aida', 'Assistant', 'Bismarck', 'Müller Extra', 'Page', 'Picador'. Razor-blade maker.

Originally Posted by holli4pirating

Those old Bismarks were very nice razors. I have heard tell that the ones that say "Registered" on the tails are supposed to be the best. But I've only shaved with the Registered ones, so I couldn't say...

I have one that says "registered" on the monkey tail, now!
I will let you know how it shaves when I try it.

Right now I am polishing the scales trying to bring up the bone handle sheen and working on blade shine - there were some stains in it I am removing with MAAS.

The only MAJOR downfall that I have on mine is the bone handle was cracked on one scale when I purchased it - near the farthest end, NOT where the blade pivots. It's still snug and seems like it's holding fine. I may eventually get some newer scales in the future, but right now, no. I will leave it in it's original condition.

Pic's coming......

Originally Posted by PLanzaSr1957

The only MAJOR downfall that I have on mine is the bone handle was cracked on one scale when I purchased it - near the farthest end, NOT where the blade pivots. It's still snug and seems like it's holding fine. I may eventually get some newer scales in the future, but right now, no. I will leave it in it's original condition.

Pic's coming......

Just IMHO, if it is a tight crack, or even if it is not and it can be glued or somehow stabilized I prefer original scales on a vintage razor ..... especially bone. YMMV

Originally Posted by JimmyHAD

Just IMHO, if it is a tight crack, or even if it is not and it can be glued or somehow stabilized I prefer original scales on a vintage razor ..... especially bone. YMMV

Hi Jimmy,

I agree. Bone, horn, etc., is "exotic" type handle material - in my opinion. Therefore I am 100% in agreement with you regarding saving it "as is".

This razor, though, had been damaged severely by being used as a striking
implement. Maybe to pound something in that the user thought would "give" more then the scales "gave" when used as a hammer.
Dunno.

There is a significant 1/4" triangular piece missing completely from it. I'd glue it in if I had the piece in my possession, but the seller did NOT possess it, UNfortunately. That's why I consider replacing them some day. I will show you once the pic's are available.

Thanks to ALL for all the additional info you have provided to me so far, above and beyond what I was able to come up with myself. These razors are nice for sure. Cannot wait to actually use it!

Here is one of the originals:

Verrrry nice! Yours has it over mine, for sure! You have an etched blade and a manufacturer's autographed handle. I have been lazy and need to get pictures posted.

I tried mine yesterday (Sunday-11 April) after doing a pyramid on my Norton 4000/8000 and a few laps on the Chinese 12,000. I was VERY impressed that such an old blade could shave so nicely. The razor seemed to be flowing over my face with no effort at all. It was extremely well balanced and comfortable to hold in my hand. I noticed that right away. And the steel is good stuff too. I heard a slight "ting" when I eventually stropped it on my Buffalo strop trying to get the edge a lil sharper and more polished.

Thanks for the pic and post.

Cheers!

~Phil

Originally Posted by Hawkeye5

Here is one of the originals:

Here is a recent pic of mine.




Notice the real dark black area near the scale at the monkey tail - that's how dark the metal was. It took approximately 3 hours off and on to get it that clean. WHEW!!!

Very, very nice!

Mine, I actually have another, are excellent shavers.