FAQ Table of Contents

  1. I've got an old razor, what can you tell me about it?
  2. Can you explain a term used in your razor description?
  3. What are they worth?
  4. How should I clean my old razor?
  5. I love my old razor but it's worn out.  Where can I buy one just like it?
  6. I have a razor just like or kinda like number <insert_number>. How much is it worth?
  7. I came across an old razor... How much could I get if I sold it?
  8. Grampah gave me an old razor and I was wondering if it is worth anything?
  9. I have a razor exactly like #3. Please give me a ballpark idea of value
  10. Aren't these last four questions all the same as number 3?
  11. I have a razor just like or kinda like number <insert_number>. Can you sell it for me?
  12. I have a razor box/blade/advertisement/strop/shaving mug/shaving brush... Does anyone collect these?
  13. You really suggest using Ebay a lot! Do you own stock in the company or something?
  14. I think the Internet is lame. I wrote you an email and you never responded so I threw my razor away.

I've got an old razor, what can you tell me about it?

Due to the number of emails I get each week, I regret that I can't offer individual research and/or appraisals at this time.  I'll be adding information to this web site as time permits.  I am also working on a Collectors Guide Book to Safety Razors which will include more detailed information than the web site plus razor value guidelines. If you would like to receive additional information about the book when it becomes available just drop me an email.

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Can you explain a term used in your razor description?

Sorry for the confusion.  In the interests of time and general laziness I've attempted to classify razors into broad categories.  For definitions please see my pictorial glossary of terms.

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What are they worth?
a.k.a. I have a razor kinda like number <insert_number>. How much is it worth?
a.k.a. I came across an old razor... How much could I get if I sold it?
a.k.a. Grampah gave me an old razor and I was wondering if it is worth anything?
a.k.a. I have a razor exactly like #24. Please give me a ballpark idea of its value.

All together now... "It all depends."  Some are worth a couple of dollars and some are worth hundreds.  I haven't seen any that cost thousands yet but just give it time.  Most are worth between $8.00 and $20.00 USD. For more exact prices search completed auctions on Ebay for a razor like yours. Of course, as with all collectibles, condition is very important.   Razors have taken a lot of abuse over the years.  The more pristine the condition the better.  Do you have the original box?  Do you have all original documentation?  Do you have the blades that came with it?  And so on.  I am currently working on a Collectors Guide to Safety Razors which will include more details, history, tips on bargain hunting for razors, a price guide and other information. If you would like to receive additional information about the book when it becomes available just drop me an email.

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Aren't these last four questions all the same as number 3?

Well, I thought so but since I still get emails with these various questions I thought I would make the FAQ a little more thorough.

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How should I clean my old razor?

I've had good success with warm soapy water and an old toothbrush.  Do not use anything abrasive on the razor.  Many razors are plated and polishing or cleaning with abrasives could wear away the plating.  Unfortunately, I've seen this quite often.  A patina on the razor is normal.  Removing it may reduce the value of the razor.  Also, be sure to check for blades!  Don't get cut on an nasty, dirty old razor blade!

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I love my old razor but it's worn out.  Where can I buy one just like it?

I've found that EBay is a good source for old razors.  Just go to the search page and type "safety razor" for a long list of the razors currently on auction.  If you aren't familiar with EBay be sure to read the New to EBay page.  Also, be aware the you will probably be paying collector prices.   Also, be sure to ask about its functional condition.  It might be rare, pretty and shiny but does it work well?  Confession:  I shave with BIC disposables.   I've got over 300 safety razors and couldn't tell you how one of them shaves. [head hanging in shame]

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I have a razor box/blade/advertisement/strop/shaving mug/shaving brush... Does anyone collect these?

Yes. If you want to sell it try Ebay.

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I have a razor just like or kinda like number <insert_number>. Can you sell it for me?

No. If you want to sell it try selling it on Ebay.

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You really suggest Ebay a lot! Do you own stock in the company or something?

Yes, beacause its a great idea and a good company. It's also an excelent reference to see what things are selling for. That's the only reason I keep suggesting you check out Ebay.

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I think the Internet is lame. I wrote you an email and you never responded so I threw my razor away.

Ok. Its not a FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION but I did actually get this one. Save yourself some grief. If the question you are going to send me in an email is already covered by this FAQ don't expect a response. I truely appreciate all the complimentary emails I've recieved over the years. I don't mean to offend anyone but sometimes many months go by that I have no time to devote to razors, this web site, or my razor emails, let alone respond to questions already answered here in this FAQ. :-)

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Copyright © Richard Brightwell. All rights reserved.
Revised: August 21, 1999.