Thread: My Great Grandfather's Razor

My dad dropped off a load of "junk" at my house, since he is in the process of moving. In it, I discovered my great grandfather's razor. The box is labeled "Simon Pure Cutlery Co., Fully Warranted, Magnetized, Price $3.00, Germany". But, I am guessing the razor is not the blade that originally came in the box. The engraving on the shank of the razor says "Joseph Smith & Sons, Celebrated Razor, 3415". I had to get my 9 year old daughter to figure that out, it's pretty worn. The blade is very loose in the scales, but the blade seems to be in decent shape. I am considering getting someone to refurbish it for me. I'm new to the forum, so I'm not sure if it is something that would be easy, or not (or overly expensive, for that matter). If anyone here knows anything about this razor, or has some advice, I'm all ears. I haven't started shaving with a straight, yet, but I am here to learn. Here is a picture:

It looks good enough in my opinion to just have it sent of for a honing, no refurbishment needed. I would leave it like it is... It will make a great shaver. Although there is a bit of spine wear and a frown, I am sure the guys can take care of that.

How nice that your Great Grandfather's razor survived to be passed down in the family. You have a nice old razor there. I agree with the above about sending her out for honing and a good look over if you are thinking
straight razor shaving or if you just want to have the razor cleaned up for you to store so you can pass it
down in the family. These old razors generally have a lot of life left in them.