Semogue Caravela - LE to the Extreme

[CzechCzar]

So, in another post (http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php/237797-Boar-badger-combination), I commented that I had never before heard of a badger/boar combination brush, and given the extremely high quality of all the Semogue boars I have, I might have to jump on this one too.

Well, Google is an amazing thing, and after a couple minutes of looking around, I determined:

This is a limited edition brush designed in conjunction with two Spanish shaving forums.
(Source (http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php/171048-New-Semogue-Badgers?).)

By limited edition, I mean "extremely limited edition." Apparently, only 100 of these were made, and they went on sale to the members of the Spanish shaving forums first. Those scoundrels bought up all but 30 of them. (Source (http://damnfineshave.com/viewtopic.php?f=34&t=2122&sid=1b8640bfc218b3b34ae7fedf627505e3).)

What this means is that vintagescent has 30 or fewer of these brushes leftover. I have already bought mine:001_wub:... who is going to get the rest of them? This is the limitedest-edition I have ever heard of!!:001_tt1:

[kbuzbee]

Several companies have made runs of <100 but it is a very pretty brush!:thumbup: Well done!

Ken

[brg]

Actually, one of the forums is Spanish (foroafeitado.com) and the other is Portuguese (barbearclassico.com). This was a limited edition, specially made for both the Iberian forums.

#80 is already here, oh yeah! :)

http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/3639/img0859hb.jpg

[CzechCzar]

How does it perform? I've got one on the way and can't wait to see how the badger/boar synthesis works out.


Actually, one of the forums is Spanish (foroafeitado.com) and the other is Portuguese (barbearclassico.com). This was a limited edition, specially made for both the Iberian forums.

#80 is already here, oh yeah! :)

http://img193.imageshack.us/img193/3639/img0859hb.jpg

[Kevan]

I have two Semogues and couldn't be happier with them. I have nothing negative to say about the company, either. That is a beautiful brush; love the caravel etched on the bottom!

[_MementoMori_]

Holy crap, that's beautiful.

Note to self: stay away from the shaving brush forum

[brg]

Can't say much about the performance, as I've only used it half a dozen times. But it is a dense brush, with a 24mm knot. The tips are soft (typical of both hair types) and it has nice backbone, which I value a lot. It produces lather with ease, and applies it even better because of its surface area.
What I can comment on is the handle. Looks much better than in the photos IMHO, and it is very comfortable to hold.

[CzechCzar]

The top quality boar hair, the soft badger hair with backbone, and the LE run made me lose my will!! I would love to hear how it treats you once it opens up.!

[_MementoMori_]

B&B will be the death of me. I just folded and bought one of these...

[CzechCzar]

Feed your addiction!!


B&B will be the death of me. I just folded and bought one of these...

[SirWhiskers]

What size wrench goes with that handle? :w00t:

The brush looks nice, but what are the advantages of a boar/badger mix?

[CzechCzar]

Hopefully, everything awesome about boar and badger and none of the bad stuff.


What size wrench goes with that handle? :w00t:

The brush looks nice, but what are the advantages of a boar/badger mix?

[franz]

The Vulfix 404 Grosvenor is a mixed badger/boar.

The exclusivity doesn't excite me that much... am I being cranky??

Anyway, it looks like an interesting brush. Enjoy. :thumbup1:

[Waldo_vt]

Hello all -

Would this work as a face lather (seems a bit big...)? I like the mixed brushes and am looking for a new brush...

[nathanb]

Hello all -

Would this work as a face lather (seems a bit big...)? I like the mixed brushes and am looking for a new brush...

Hello, I don't have this brush so if you want an answer about this specific then you will have to wait for someone who owns it. However, I own a similarly sized brush - the SOC 2 band brush that also has a 24mm knot and an approximately 52mm loft. I find no problem face lathering with this brush. Since I don't own one of these I cannot say that it would work great as a face lathering brush but I don't have a problem face lathering with a similarly sized brush. :thumbup1:

It is a beautiful brush... :001_unsur

[oversaturn]

The Vulfix 404 Grosvenor is a mixed badger/boar.

The exclusivity doesn't excite me that much... am I being cranky??

Anyway, it looks like an interesting brush. Enjoy. :thumbup1:

I have a Grosvenor too, and it's not even close to this. Let's see why:

The Grosvenor is a mixture of boar bristles and only about 10%-15% of pure badger bristles. Low density, a little bit scratchy, but a good brush for the price, IMHO.

The Semogue Caravela is a mixture of 50% boar bristles (Premium 90% tops, like in the 1305 and 830 models) and 50% Finest Badger hair (like in the SOC 2-band model). Soft tips, very dense, 24mm knot, a huge amount of backbone. It is not the exclusivity... it is indeed a much more better, nicer brush than the Grosvenor model.


Hello all -

Would this work as a face lather (seems a bit big...)? I like the mixed brushes and am looking for a new brush...

Well... This model was specifically designed for facelatherers, but it behaves excellent with bowllathering too.

Oh, and a few photos of mine (#77):

http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i338/ejcoelho/P1040091.jpg

http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i338/ejcoelho/P1040089.jpg

http://i1088.photobucket.com/albums/i338/ejcoelho/P1040087.jpg

[rearviewmirror]

just ordered one and some 444.
really the order was about the 444!

[JPDyson]

Boy howdy this is tempting.

[wimbouman]

Great pics.
Wonderful choice of razors also.

[muleman244]

B&B will be the death of me. I just folded and bought one of these...

This...& another 1305 to go with it...bugger

[rntdcarvalho]

Actually, one of the forums is Spanish (foroafeitado.com) and the other is Portuguese (barbearclassico.com). This was a limited edition, specially made for both the Iberian forums.

You may want to scratch that and replace with "specially made for those with the money to buy it"!
I know Leon is running a business, and I wish him all the best in that, but he could limit the sale to people who actually sign up for one of the BC or FA forums (The ones written in the base!).
At least something like :
Hello, I'm X from Y and I'm just here so I could buy the Caravela brush!

Simple and honest, and that way it would still be a BC&FA brush!

[fuximori]

It is a magnificent brush, fairly dense, very firmly with soft tips

Here you have a photo of mine :001_wub:

http://img807.imageshack.us/img807/4882/63469616.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/807/63469616.jpg/)

Best regards
Miguel

[franz]

I have a Grosvenor too, and it's not even close to this. Let's see why:

The Grosvenor is a mixture of boar bristles and only about 10%-15% of pure badger bristles. Low density, a little bit scratchy, but a good brush for the price, IMHO.

The Semogue Caravela is a mixture of 50% boar bristles (Premium 90% tops, like in the 1305 and 830 models) and 50% Finest Badger hair (like in the SOC 2-band model). Soft tips, very dense, 24mm knot, a huge amount of backbone. It is not the exclusivity... it is indeed a much more better, nicer brush than the Grosvenor model.


Don't get me wrong - it looks like a great brush, and I'm sure it performs well. I mentioned the Grosvenor because some people hadn't heard of a mixed badger/boar brush.

As for the exclusivity, I would be just as interested in this brush if it were a regular production model.

[JPDyson]

Boy howdy this is tempting.

...and apparently I can resist anything but temptation. One on the way.

[oversaturn]

Don't get me wrong - it looks like a great brush, and I'm sure it performs well. I mentioned the Grosvenor because some people hadn't heard of a mixed badger/boar brush.

As for the exclusivity, I would be just as interested in this brush if it were a regular production model.

Maybe in the future... who knows? Perhaps Semogue's cooking something like that for the future.

[Harvitz81]

...and apparently I can resist anything but temptation. One on the way.

I have one on the way as well. I haven't bought a brush in a long time and really thought SBAD was dead. I was just too curious especially given the use of the 2-band finest badger hair combined with the grade of boar I really like.

Really only thought I'd be holding out for the Thater 2-band when they are released, but this was too tempting.

[JPDyson]

I have one on the way as well. I haven't bought a brush in a long time and really thought SBAD was dead. I was just too curious especially given the use of the 2-band finest badger hair combined with the grade of boar I really like.

Really only thought I'd be holding out for the Thater 2-band when they are released, but this was too tempting.

Right, I was never all that interested in a mixed brush until it was marketed as premium. If it's a cheapo brush, it may as well be all boar. But this is a premium mixed brush. That's intriguing.

Ahem... I said "I'm INTRIGUED"...

(wait for it...)

[sanfranciscian]

I have one on the way as well. I haven't bought a brush in a long time and really thought SBAD was dead. I was just too curious especially given the use of the 2-band finest badger hair combined with the grade of boar I really like.

Really only thought I'd be holding out for the Thater 2-band when they are released, but this was too tempting.


I would say my feelings mirror yours, been a long time since i was even tempted. The size of it puts it right in my wheelhouse for using with the scuttle during winter months and it really is an attractive bugger. Order placed.

Ian

[marcel]

Oh my, it must be the hot weather overhere as I just ordered one too. Very attractive brush! And my first new brush in, say 10 years. And I still want a best badger medium size simpsons...

[Harvitz81]

Oh my, it must be the hot weather overhere as I just ordered one too. Very attractive brush! And my first new brush in, say 10 years. And I still want a best badger medium size simpsons...


Simpson's best grade of hair is IMHO their "best". You won't be disappointed in one.

[rearviewmirror]

so how do we go about breaking in these badger/boar beauties?

[nathanb]

...and apparently I can resist anything but temptation. One on the way.

I really shouldn't have checked this thread again... I couldn't resist temptation either. After receiving my SOC 2 band and being so impressed I couldn't resist very long after finding out about these. I also have a bottle of Floid on the way, excited to try out both.

[Intrigued]

Right, I was never all that interested in a mixed brush until it was marketed as premium. If it's a cheapo brush, it may as well be all boar. But this is a premium mixed brush. That's intriguing.

Ahem... I said "I'm INTRIGUED"...

(wait for it...)

The brush is intriguing. But you are not "Intrigued"! I am Intrigued! :angry:

You can be "Curious", or "Oddly Curious", or just plain "Odd". :idea:


On second thought maybe you should stick with JPDyson. :001_tongu


*edit* Darn, now I think we need to call you "The Bad Influence" 'cause I just ordered one. :blushing:

[Harvitz81]

so how do we go about breaking in these badger/boar beauties?

Just use it...

[CzechCzar]

I had this same problem when I first started using boar. A fresh boar brush can be nartsy! Thankfully, this problem has been addressed!.

Linksie (http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php/139297-How-To-Break-In-A-Brush-amp-Get-The-Funk-Out).


so how do we go about breaking in these badger/boar beauties?

[PaulL]

Very beautiful photos too!

[Omega_baby]

i didn't not give in........... "awaits postman"

[AndreasDK]

Looks beautiful.

Personally I need a handle that will NEVER chip away.
That`s the only downside of my 1305.

[raisindot]

Moderator, oh, moderator! I need to call your attention to the seemingly never-ending stream of SAD (Semogue Acquisition Disorder) postings. These postings are becoming extremely harmful to my dwindling bank account. I, too, submitted to this terrible affliction and ordered one of these.

[JPDyson]

But you are not "Intrigued"! I am Intrigued! :angry
...
*edit* Darn, now I think we need to call you "The Bad Influence" 'cause I just ordered one. :blushing:

My original plan worked flawlessly. If the unintended consequence was that you bought a neat brush, hey - all the better.

Yup, my work here is done (until the "First Impressions" thread starts :lol:).

[nEver-Ready]

I also broke down and ordered one two days ago. My only concern is that I got an e-mail in reply later indicating that Bruno was on vacation from June 20-27 and orders made in that interval would be processed when he returned. Somebody said earlier that there were 30 total of these things. I just hope the web site has been accurately keeping track of remaining inventory, because from all these "I broke down and bought one" postings, it seems like more than 30 of these things should have been ordered by now.

[rearviewmirror]

Remember guys, we're helping Leon empty out his stock! We are helping small business! WE ARE THE JUGGERNAUTS OF FREE TRADE!

[_MementoMori_]

I also broke down and ordered one two days ago. My only concern is that I got an e-mail in reply later indicating that Bruno was on vacation from June 20-27 and orders made in that interval would be processed when he returned. Somebody said earlier that there were 30 total of these things. I just hope the web site has been accurately keeping track of remaining inventory, because from all these "I broke down and bought one" postings, it seems like more than 30 of these things should have been ordered by now.

They're not listed on the website anymore, and I've yet to receive an email saying they're out of stock. We shall see. I really hope we're all able to get them.

[Intrigued]

I also broke down and ordered one two days ago. My only concern is that I got an e-mail in reply later indicating that Bruno was on vacation from June 20-27 and orders made in that interval would be processed when he returned. Somebody said earlier that there were 30 total of these things. I just hope the web site has been accurately keeping track of remaining inventory, because from all these "I broke down and bought one" postings, it seems like more than 30 of these things should have been ordered by now.

Very shortly (less then 5 min.) after I ordered mine last night, they were no longer listed on the website.


They're not listed on the website anymore, and I've yet to receive an email saying they're out of stock. We shall see. I really hope we're all able to get them.

+1

[CzechCzar]

I think that we'll get ours... by my count there were 11 orders after mine, and I received a shipping confirmation yesterday morning. The fact that this has been taken off of the website makes me think that we got the last few...


I also broke down and ordered one two days ago. My only concern is that I got an e-mail in reply later indicating that Bruno was on vacation from June 20-27 and orders made in that interval would be processed when he returned. Somebody said earlier that there were 30 total of these things. I just hope the web site has been accurately keeping track of remaining inventory, because from all these "I broke down and bought one" postings, it seems like more than 30 of these things should have been ordered by now.


Very shortly (less then 5 min.) after I ordered mine last night, they were no longer listed on the website.



+1

[madmedic]

I ordered one last nite, and just checked the website. As far as I can see.....the brush is listed.

[mftoms59]

I just checked Vintage Scent and the Brush is still listed, hurry up and help me HOLD OUT :scared: :drool: :crying:

[madmedic]

Why?????????. Resistance is futile!!!!!!

[mftoms59]

Why?????????. Resistance is futile!!!!!!

With 7 Brushes in rotation (6 + 1 Head Shaver) I need to keep peace in my home... well since one is a travel brush, that's 5 technically :ohmy: :001_unsur :sneaky2:

[Bandik]

I DID TRIED, Hard ( 24--hours) to resist : the " Caravella"-- is sailing to- Toronto......

[mftoms59]

Why?????????. Resistance is futile!!!!!!

Whew... That was close, I almost Succumbed but it's not listed anymore... guess I'll be watching the B/S/T :w00t:
Thanks Bandik :001_smile

[Altair]

They only made 100 of them you better get yours fast. It's an amazing brush it LATHERS LIKE A CHAMP! :001_tt1:

http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/5040/85415819.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/171/85415819.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

http://img811.imageshack.us/img811/3521/32297291.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/811/32297291.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

http://img40.imageshack.us/img40/4043/50768175.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/40/50768175.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/9454/06282011.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/703/06282011.jpg/)

[oversaturn]

... It's an amazing brush it LATHERS LIKE A CHAMP! :001_tt1:
...


What he said. :thumbup1:

[njpaddy]

I'm glad I missed this until now. Even not liking boar I would have been tempted. It's a beauty.

[global_dev]

They're not listed on the website anymore, and I've yet to receive an email saying they're out of stock. We shall see. I really hope we're all able to get them.


Very shortly (less then 5 min.) after I ordered mine last night, they were no longer listed on the website.


I ordered one last nite, and just checked the website. As far as I can see.....the brush is listed.

technically, the brush is still listed, but it definitely now says Out of Stock. (http://vintagescent.com/shaving-brushes-c-5/semogue-caravela-p-121) The same ways the 2011 LE is still listed there.

I tend to think there are more than 100 made in case of some defective brushes and I imagine his site is set-up to track inventory pretty easily.

that said, i too ordered one due to my interest in the knot.

[Intrigued]

technically, the brush is still listed, but it definitely now says Out of Stock. (http://vintagescent.com/shaving-brushes-c-5/semogue-caravela-p-121) The same ways the 2011 LE is still listed there.

I tend to think there are more than 100 made in case of some defective brushes and I imagine his site is set-up to track inventory pretty easily.

that said, i too ordered one due to my interest in the knot.

The brush did disappear from the site on the 27th and them reappear yesterday only to disappear again last night. Now it's back with a "Sold Out".

What makes sense to me is this: Bruno deliberately undercounted his stock of the brush for automated ordering while he was on vacation (June 20-27) just to make sure he didn't over sell it. Then yesterday he sold the remaining brushes that he personally verified he had. Today he updated the site to state that it was sold out.

I understood Bruno to say, in one of the forums this brush was made for, that he was keeping the Caravela to a strict LE of 100. I still believe that is the case.

[CzechCzar]

I should get some kinda props for selling out the rest of his inventory!

[JD.E.]

It looks like you guys saved me the trouble.... was reading this thread and the temptation was growing by the minute! But.... they are all sold out now. If anyone decided that they don't want their brush for any reason, please keep me in mind!

Thanks,

JD

[madmedic]

It really does look a classy brush. Hope Ihave one.....the order is still processing!

[franz]

As much as I came off looking like an obstreperous curmudgeon, I actually wanted one of these. :lol: I snoozed and lost.


I should get some kinda props for selling out the rest of his inventory!

Hmm... maybe some kind of merit badge - try asking a mod and I'm sure they would be happy to oblige. :lol:

[strohman]

I love that handle. When it's not in the light, it looks like it could be wood, but when the light hits it, you can see into the handle a bit. Looks like some kind of lucite or similar material.
I'm not a brush collector, but this one did catch my attention.

[Intrigued]

It really does look a classy brush. Hope Ihave one.....the order is still processing!

I ordered mine in on the 27th and the order is also still in "processing" status and that's probably because of this announcement on his home page:



IMPORTANTE NOTICE
The store will be closed for vacation from June 20th until June 27th
All orders made in the meantime will only be processed the week after

So I won't start worry about my brush until next week. And I won't start hanging out at the mailbox until at least the week after. :lol:

[madmedic]

I wonder if he has a few extras to cover any items lost in delivery......it has happened before.

[Intrigued]

For those of you that like/love this brush or just like some great brush porn, here is a link to a thread in the Barbear Classico forum (http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=pt&u=http://www.barbearclassico.com/index.php%3Ftopic%3D1268.0&ei=SKkLTvCLAoi3sQLx_tW3Cg&sa=X&oi=translate&ct=result&resnum=5&ved=0CE0Q7gEwBA&prev=/search%3Fq%3DSemogue%2BCaravela%26hl%3Den%26client %3Dsafari%26rls%3Den%26prmd%3Divns). It may take you a while to get there but the payoff is on page 7. :001_smile

[mftoms59]

I should get some kinda props for selling out the rest of his inventory!

:clap::clap::clap:...Very Nice Brush... you ALMOST had me :ohmy:

[brg]

For those of you that like/love this brush or just like some great brush porn, here is a link to a thread in the Barbear Classico forum (http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=pt&u=http://www.barbearclassico.com/index.php%3Ftopic%3D1268.0&ei=SKkLTvCLAoi3sQLx_tW3Cg&sa=X&oi=translate&ct=result&resnum=5&ved=0CE0Q7gEwBA&prev=/search%3Fq%3DSemogue%2BCaravela%26hl%3Den%26client %3Dsafari%26rls%3Den%26prmd%3Divns). It may take you a while to get there but the payoff is on page 7. :001_smile

It was quite an experience. My reply to that topic after ordering was my 1000th post in the forum, the brush was ordered June 10th (Day of Portugal). And you may guess what the #80 means...
Although I would have preferred that the brush was (almost) exclusive for the forum members, it makes perfect business sense. Not selling 30 brushes in a short period of time means a lot of money invested that's not going anywhere. May you all enjoy it, in the spirit of Great Discoveries!

[rearviewmirror]

i'm not checking my email every 20 minutes awaiting a confirmation of purchase or anything...

[sanfranciscian]

I did notice that when i logged in to my account at leons that the order status for mine has changed to shipped. If that helps. I have not recieved an email either.

Ian

[nathanb]

I did notice that when i logged in to my account at leons that the order status for mine has changed to shipped. If that helps. I have not recieved an email either.

Ian

Yeah, my order status on the website also says it shipped and I have not received an e-mail either. I did not receive an e-mail that my last order shipped either. My last order from Vintage Scents took about 10 days to arrive after being shipped.

[Intrigued]

It was quite an experience. My reply to that topic after ordering was my 1000th post in the forum, the brush was ordered June 10th (Day of Portugal). And you may guess what the #80 means...
Although I would have preferred that the brush was (almost) exclusive for the forum members, it makes perfect business sense. Not selling 30 brushes in a short period of time means a lot of money invested that's not going anywhere. May you all enjoy it, in the spirit of Great Discoveries!

I can understand that the members of the two forums would have preferred that the brush remain exclusive to them. I also understand why it didn't work out that way. The more I've looked into how this brush came into being and the origins of the name "Caravela" (http://nautarch.tamu.edu/shiplab/01George/caravela/htmls/Caravel%20History.htm), the more I've come to realize this is a very special brush. I hope it helps in some small way to know this.

http://www.thenina.com/images/cover2.jpg.jpg

[Scott0079]

If this brush performs as well as it looks, we are all in for a treat !!!

[madmedic]

Mine has changed to 'shipped' as well!

[marcel]

I can understand that the members of the two forums would have preferred that the brush remain exclusive to them. I also understand why it didn't work out that way. The more I've looked into how this brush came into being and the origins of the name "Caravela" (http://nautarch.tamu.edu/shiplab/01George/caravela/htmls/Caravel%20History.htm), the more I've come to realize this is a very special brush. I hope it helps in some small way to know this.

http://www.thenina.com/images/cover2.jpg.jpg
Nice story about the Caravel behind that link, that puts things in perspective!

I ordered my brush last monday and the status changed from "processing" to "shipped" yesterday. I wonder how long it will take from Portugal to the Netherlands.

[JPDyson]

Shipped.

Check your account on Vintage Scent. The "RMXXXXXXXXXPT" number will track on USPS.com once it hits stateside (ctt.pt before that).

[nEver-Ready]

Mine also changed to shipped - woo hoo!!!

[Klarion]

I guess I returned to the forums a week too late!

[global_dev]

Shipped.

Check your account on Vintage Scent. The "RMXXXXXXXXXPT" number will track on USPS.com once it hits stateside (ctt.pt before that).

how do you track at ctt.pt?

[JPDyson]

What, you don't read Portuguese?? :lol:

http://www.ctt.pt/feapl_2/app/open/objectSearch/ctt_feapl_132col-cttObjectSearch.jspx

[global_dev]

anyone on an average ship time from vintagescent to CONUS not including holidays?

[slider643]

I would say 10 business days. But, that can change dramatically depending on customs.

[PozzSka]

you can track at track-trace.com/post

It won't give you much info except when it departed Portugal.

[JPDyson]

you can track at track-trace.com/post

It won't give you much info except when it departed Portugal.

Defaults to Portugal; Track with Options and select US (USPS) and it'll show you our leg of the journey (confirmed with a previous shipment).

[madmedic]

#67 arrived with me in the UK today:thumbup1::thumbup1:


A beautiful looking brush:drool:

[marcel]

#67 arrived with me in the UK today:thumbup1::thumbup1:


A beautiful looking brush:drool:
Congrats! When did you order it and when did it ship according to your order status?

[madmedic]

Congrats! When did you order it and when did it ship according to your order status?

I ordered very late on June 28th. It was despatched on the 30th and arrived today July 5th. That. is the fastest delivery I have ever had from vintage scent

[global_dev]

Defaults to Portugal; Track with Options and select US (USPS) and it'll show you our leg of the journey (confirmed with a previous shipment).

i get nothing on 3 sites noted here. not worried, but just curious...

madmedic - let's get some quick review!!!

[marcel]

No 89 just arrived, what a beauty! I ordered june 27th and it shipped june 30th. I can't wait to give it a go tomorrow morning.

[raisindot]

I'm a little worried now. I ordered on the 26th, and the order seemed to go through, at least it charged my Paypal account. But I never received a shipping confirm or an email receipt from Vintagescent and I never created an account so I can't track it. I sent an email last week asking if the order had gone through and I've heard nothing. I hope he isn't ripping me off, since I've bought from him before.

[oversaturn]

What, you don't read Portuguese?? :lol:

http://www.ctt.pt/feapl_2/app/open/objectSearch/ctt_feapl_132col-cttObjectSearch.jspx

Here's the English version of the page!!!!!!! :001_tt2:

http://www.ctt.pt/feapl_2/app/open/tools.jspx?tool=0&lang=01

[marcel]

I'm a little worried now. I ordered on the 26th, and the order seemed to go through, at least it charged my Paypal account. But I never received a shipping confirm or an email receipt from Vintagescent and I never created an account so I can't track it. I sent an email last week asking if the order had gone through and I've heard nothing. I hope he isn't ripping me off, since I've bought from him before.

If you didn't register the only other optionto pay would be Paypal checkout. Maybe the shipping status/tracking is available through Paypal? It can be done that way. I registered on the site so that's why I was able to see the shipping information.

[nEver-Ready]

I'm a little worried now. I ordered on the 26th, and the order seemed to go through, at least it charged my Paypal account. But I never received a shipping confirm or an email receipt from Vintagescent and I never created an account so I can't track it. I sent an email last week asking if the order had gone through and I've heard nothing. I hope he isn't ripping me off, since I've bought from him before.

Bruno/Vintage Scent has been absolutely trustworthy in my experience. I have ordered many times without problems (except long postal delays). They do not typically send shipping confirmation e-mails, but Bruno should answer your e-mail, unless it got misdirected/filtered etc. Did you try contacting him through the "contact us" feature of the website?

[Uplorry]

I regret not buying when I saw it on vintagescent! Now that it's all sold out... :(

[sanfranciscian]

Bruno/Vintage Scent has been absolutely trustworthy in my experience. I have ordered many times without problems (except long postal delays). They do not typically send shipping confirmation e-mails, but Bruno should answer your e-mail, unless it got misdirected/filtered etc. Did you try contacting him through the "contact us" feature of the website?


When i placed my order on their web site it automatically set up an account for me and sent me an email with details. maybe check your spam folder? it used the email address tied to my pay pal account. FYI for conus buyers this A.M. the tracking site in portugal shows mine has finally been expedited from lisbon so hoping that means it will be on our soil soon?


Ian

[finotti]

Does anyone know if there are any plans for Semogue to make a mixed boar/badger with similar specifications? It sounds like a terrific brush... I would seriously consider one in the future...

[oversaturn]

Does anyone know if there are any plans for Semogue to make a mixed boar/badger with similar specifications? It sounds like a terrific brush... I would seriously consider one in the future...

Maybe in the future... who knows?

[madmedic]

They keep doing specials....... good market research

[marcel]

This brush is already growing on me. Soft yet firm and it lathers like crazy. And only getting better...

[nathanb]

Does anyone have the SOC 2 band and this brush? If so, would you mind comparing the two?

Thanks,

[JPDyson]

Does anyone have the SOC 2 band and this brush? If so, would you mind comparing the two?

Thanks,

I'll chime in after I get my Caravela.

[james7604]

I've got both the SOC two band and the Caravela. I've only put the Caravela to my face 3 or 4 times so far and obviously it's not yet fully broken in so that may skew my opinion somewhat, so bear that in mind. The knots on both brushes are very similarly sized and feel roughly the same size on the face, the SOC knot is much more densely packed though. I think the SOC brush has better backbone and the tips feel softer on the face, this may change as the boar bristles split in the Caravela. As for performance, the SOC is much better so far, it seems to generate lather quicker and maintain it better, whilst having great flow through. Handles - the SOC is taller and feels much better in the hand, it's much more ergonomic and lends itself to being held in a variety of different ways. I'm sure the Caravela will get better as the boar hairs break in, but I feel the SOC is a cut above it. The SOC two band is my favourite brush that I own/have tried (others include Chubby 1+2 in best; Duke 2 Best; Wee Scot; Semogue 2010 LE, 830 and custom boar; New Forest 2201, 2211...)

[duotone]

Love the handle, when looking at the Semogue range a few months ago on VintageScent this handle really caught my eye, but was discontinued.

Semogue 1550 - 9.95 Euros

http://i48.tinypic.com/nl4ilc.jpg

[CzechCzar]

Has anyone else not gotten theirs yet?

[nathanb]

I've got both the SOC two band and the Caravela. I've only put the Caravela to my face 3 or 4 times so far and obviously it's not yet fully broken in so that may skew my opinion somewhat, so bear that in mind. The knots on both brushes are very similarly sized and feel roughly the same size on the face, the SOC knot is much more densely packed though. I think the SOC brush has better backbone and the tips feel softer on the face, this may change as the boar bristles split in the Caravela. As for performance, the SOC is much better so far, it seems to generate lather quicker and maintain it better, whilst having great flow through. Handles - the SOC is taller and feels much better in the hand, it's much more ergonomic and lends itself to being held in a variety of different ways. I'm sure the Caravela will get better as the boar hairs break in, but I feel the SOC is a cut above it. The SOC two band is my favourite brush that I own/have tried (others include Chubby 1+2 in best; Duke 2 Best; Wee Scot; Semogue 2010 LE, 830 and custom boar; New Forest 2201, 2211...)

Hello, thanks! That is exactly what I needed to hear. I have a SOC 2 band and was curious as to how it would compare with the Caravela. Thanks for the feedback,

[nathanb]

Has anyone else not gotten theirs yet?

According to the tracking, mine left Portugal on July 6th. USPS doesn't have it in its system yet.

[slim62]

#61 arrived today, ordered June 26th...looks very nice!

[JPDyson]

Received! Can't remember the number, but it was high (90's, maybe 94). Tracking never updated (but it's only purpose is the signature, as it's Registered mail).

I've owned Semogue brushes, in both badger and boar, and even in the grades that occupy this brush (Finest badger and Premium boar). But I have never, and I mean never smelled anything nearly as pungent as this brush when I opened the tube. Maybe it's the mid-90's temperature we're rockin' these days, but I thought there was actually a couple of carcasses in the box (one each badger and boar). I mean it, it was bad.

So far, I've soaked the brush in hot water, washed it out with dish soap, and loaded it up with MWF (which it made a MOUND of with very little effort). My first impressions are that it's a very different brush from the SOC two-band; more loft, but still rather dense. Think all-arounder more than face-latherer. Hope to shave with it tomorrow, but I'll need to plug my nose.

[sanfranciscian]

Received! Can't remember the number, but it was high (90's, maybe 94). Tracking never updated (but it's only purpose is the signature, as it's Registered mail).

I've owned Semogue brushes, in both badger and boar, and even in the grades that occupy this brush (Finest badger and Premium boar). But I have never, and I mean never smelled anything nearly as pungent as this brush when I opened the tube. Maybe it's the mid-90's temperature we're rockin' these days, but I thought there was actually a couple of carcasses in the box (one each badger and boar). I mean it, it was bad.

So far, I've soaked the brush in hot water, washed it out with dish soap, and loaded it up with MWF (which it made a MOUND of with very little effort). My first impressions are that it's a very different brush from the SOC two-band; more loft, but still rather dense. Think all-arounder more than face-latherer. Hope to shave with it tomorrow, but I'll need to plug my nose.


number 97 in here today, zero stink on mine in 56 degree san francisco, must be the heat josh. any way have not wet it yet but love the way the handle feels in hand, with nice heft to it. mine has tons of backbone dry so we will see.

Ian

[nathanb]

Number 98 arrived here in Virginia today. Haven't had time to really do anything with it other than give it a quick once over. Definitely pleased with the quick shipping all the way from Portugal. I got a bottle of Floid too so am excited to try that out tomorrow.

[franz]

I've owned Semogue brushes, in both badger and boar, and even in the grades that occupy this brush (Finest badger and Premium boar). But I have never, and I mean never smelled anything nearly as pungent as this brush when I opened the tube. Maybe it's the mid-90's temperature we're rockin' these days, but I thought there was actually a couple of carcasses in the box (one each badger and boar). I mean it, it was bad.


Off to a good start. :lol:

[marcel]

Mine smelled a bit when it arrived, but after I used it a couple of times, including testing, the smell is completely gone. The brush is also softening up a bit.

[_MementoMori_]

I missed mine today!

Damn job... always interfering with my pastimes. I'll have to pick it up early from the post office tomorrow.

[Intrigued]

Number 74 arrived today. I took some quick pre-bloom pictures, washed it with Dawn, and did some test lathering with some Mama Bears and MWF. The odor that it has is not bad and seemed more chemical then badger or boar funk.

181349

181350

[bobfarvour]

Got mine today as well, I forget what number I got, 73 I'm thinking..... Whew !! What a stink !! This is the stinkingest brush I've ever bought, I'm gonna give it a few washes with shampoo and conditioner before I use it again. But it killed the MWF !! I think I like it. The firmness is amazing, and I was also very surprised how soft it was. This is my first badger/boar mixture.

[JPDyson]

Very interesting brush. Still haven't shaved with it, but I have done about four test lathers in my palm. It plays well to my boar-enlightened lathering technique (which is to leave the brush wet, not dripping, but holding a lot of water, and then load up on the soap for maybe 10 seconds). MOUNDS of lather, every time. Things I'm watching for - boars generally give me a creamier lather with less fluff, whereas badgers tend to whip more air into the lather. I'm not talking monumental differences here, but certainly noticeable. This tends to lather, so far, well - somewhere in the middle. It seems a little less whipped than most other badgers I've used, and a little less creamy than the boars. Feels slick, cushiony, and protective.

The way the knot feels to my hand, again, takes points from both fields. Badger hair is more springy/bouncy, whereas boar hair is more, I don't know, "bendy". It seems to take a little longer to fall back into place, if it does at all. Well both of these are happening with the Caravela. I'm feeling like there are two distinct kinds of hairs occupying one space, and it's very intriguing. Can't wait to feel it on my face, and then again, what it'll be like in a couple weeks. Needless to say, I'm optimistic about the brush's prospects in general - I think it's a successful execution of the concept. I just wonder if it's for me, or if it exhibits benefits over its counterparts (being neither fully badger, and thusly less expensive, but yet more expensive than boar, and not being fully boar either).

I'm confused/excited/optimistic/rambling.

[Intrigued]

Very interesting brush.......


.........I'm confused/excited/optimistic/rambling.

Interesting thoughts. I've never really cared much for my boar brushes, but my initial impressions of this hybrid brush strikes me as one I could really enjoy.

Oh, and you seem to be having an identity crisis..... At least you no longer think your Intrigued. :001_huh:

[sanfranciscian]

Good ramblings though josh, I finally gave mine it first bath and test lather and then the funk did indeed appear. though not so bad it is definitely the most funk i have ever experienced. I will cling to marcels statement it goes away quickly. I am really looking forward to trying it. post bath it has bloomed just right, and i feel like when i was lathering that the backbone was not too far short of my 620 with a plush set of tips. If this breaks in to the point where i think it is heading this could be one of the great ones. fingers crossed.

Ian

[Harvitz81]

Good to hear they are arriving in the states. I'll hopefully get a notice in my mailbox this week so I can pick it up from the PO this Saturday.

[CzechCzar]

Mine finally got here! :drool::drool:

Cannot wait to try it out tomorrow morning!!

[Scott0079]

Mine is awaiting me patiently at the post office to be picked up tomorrow as well!!!!

[Omega_baby]

I want mine now stop teasing!! still waiting in perth, worlds most isolated city :(

[Klarion]

OMG, that is beautiful. If anyone decides it's not to your liking, gimme a holler.

[pauls51]

Awesome looking brushes gents!

[CzechCzar]

I just have to say that my brush ...

smells

DISGUSTING

I soaked it in water and Palmolive dishwashing soap for 2+ hours. It was all I could do to whip up a scuttle of proraso to let it sit in overnight. This is without a doubt the worst-smelling brush I have ever come across. And for the record, I live in the San Francisco Bay Area too, so it shouldn't be so bad! Right? Right??

[Altair]

It does have a bit of a funky smell. I think they use some kind of chemical to take out the real Bad funky stink from the boar. I washed mine for about 3 days then the smell was gone. I have another SOC pure boar the smell went away within 3 days as well.

Now Ive had an omegra professional That thing was probably never treated. I spent 3 months trying to get rid of the stench I washed it with laundry detergent, shampoo, conditioner, dish soap, I even let it sit in Rose Oil. after 3 moths the smell went away it was like slaughterer pig stink. horrible.

[rntdcarvalho]

Two things to say, first the smell is naphthalene, not pleasant (far from it) but it's there for conservation purposes, and eventually it washes off. Second, when I first got the brush I did 9 or 10 break-in cycles in order to accelerate the full potential of the brush, fellow tester of the Caravela prototype warned me that I could do as many as I wanted, but that only after 15-20 REAL uses would the brush truly show it's awesomeness. Having done that all I can say is that they were right, so stop doing tests and start using the brush, in a month from now we'll see how much your opinions have changed!


The SOC2 comparison is a little unfair one, but having both as well I can agree with almost everything that james7604 said, but the truth is that they are two very different brushes. The part that I most disagree with is this "SOC brush has better backbone and the tips feel softer on the face" - Use the Caravela more, mine's tips are almost as soft and it's backbone makes the SOC look like a floppy brush!! But for first impressions you are dead on spot, well done!

[Waldo_vt]

Hm... Well #90 just showed up last night - I will agree with all the previous statements that the brush has a strong "funk" but I ran it thru two cycles (tabac / musgo) and it is has decreased in odor quickly. It is waaaay to early to pass judgment on the brush but I will say that it appears to be quite soft but dense with a large amount of backbone (well at least compared to my 404 blended)...

[JPDyson]

So far, soaps lathered are MWF (my default break-in conditioning soap), AoS Sandalwood (my go-to defunker), and for the first time in actual shave duty, Tabac (because it's a solid performer and well-scented). The funk is fading fast. Shave went really well. There's some tip scritch owed to fresh boar hair, but it built and applied lather very well. Second pass left something to be desired, but again - brand new boar hair could be to blame. I will say it did a better second pass than most of my brand new all-boar brushes ever did (thanks, badger). The handle is actually quite good, though I will agree that the shape isn't the most ergonomic. It is, however, easy to get a good grip on it and it feels stable and substantial in my hand.

Something worth noting that sets this apart - it's a large-ish brush for my tastes, on paper - but it's rather compact on the face for such a size. Owed to the boar hair no doubt, as a badger only brush of this size would see the BST pretty quickly. I remain very optimistic about this brush. Once those boar hairs split, we may have a real winner on our hands.

[JPDyson]

PS, sorry Jessie - I know that list of "break in" soaps is making you wince a bit. I just don't keep any cheap stuff around.

[oversaturn]

...
The SOC2 comparison is a little unfair one, but having both as well I can agree with almost everything that james7604 said, but the truth is that they are two very different brushes. The part that I most disagree with is this "SOC brush has better backbone and the tips feel softer on the face" - Use the Caravela more, mine's tips are almost as soft and it's backbone makes the SOC look like a floppy brush!! But for first impressions you are dead on spot, well done!

I strongly agree with this. Having used the Caravela brush for 2 or 3 weeks now, it has much more backbone than the SOC-2 band.

[raisindot]

Picked mine up (#96) at the post office this morning. What a beautiful brush! The handle has the great feel and contours of the 1305. Mine didn't have any odor at all; then again, I haven't put any water on it.

[marcel]

The first Caravela has already been sold on BST :scared:

[JPDyson]

The first Caravela has already been sold on BST :scared:

The B&B BST - Curing Buyer's Remorse since 2005...

[franz]

The first Caravela has already been sold on BST :scared:

Aw... and it was still new too... killin' me here.

[_MementoMori_]

#64 is now sitting proudly on my counter downstairs with the SOC on one side and the 830 on the other. Pics to come when I shave with it next.

[Scott0079]

#5 Just went on the maiden voyage, first impression is that this is a keeper !!!

[sanfranciscian]

took 97 out for its inaugural today also, marcel was correct, after todays use the stink is nearly gone. had a great first run and can't wait to get it broken in. fingers still crossed on where its heading. really liking the backbone.

Ian

[Harvitz81]

#84 arrived today. Pleasant surprise as I've had to sign for everything in the past from vintagescent, but since moving my new post-man hasn't made me sign for anything despite receiving several signature confirmation items. I guess I can't complain as I'm never home during the week.

Anyway, holy badger/boar funk. Mine has been through 2 dish soap cycles and lathered with some Nancy Boy cream and Klar. Scent is fading, so I'll give it a go in the morning. Might stick with it for a month to get it to it's full potential before deciding if it's a keeper.

[nathanb]

Aw... and it was still new too... killin' me here.

Yeah, I sold that one. And it wasn't because this isn't a quality brush (at least from what I can tell without using it), I just went a little overboard on brush purchases recently. :scared:

[nEver-Ready]

#56 landed in my Boston area mailbox yesterday and took it's maiden voyage on my face today with Colonel Conk's Bay Rum shaving soap. A bit of unbroken boar scratch, but a very interesting and promising brush. Not much funk with mine, just some mothball smell. Much denser and "badger-like" than either my Vulfix 404 badger/boar or Omega badger/boar. I'm thinking this is a pretty good interpolation of the B&B LE boar on one hand and the SOC 2-band on the other in terms of characteristics. Pre-bloom (not a huge bloomer) pics below...

181608

181609

[melyus]

Beautiful Brush Mike Congrats..

[Klarion]

PS, sorry Jessie - I know that list of "break in" soaps is making you wince a bit. I just don't keep any cheap stuff around.


No worries, Josh. The only "problem" I have is with Tabac. Ugh! I hate the smell so much, the soap never touches the bristles of anything I own.

[shanman]

^^ I concur, Tabac makes me feel/smell like I shaved with my grandmother's hairspray- Aquanet to be precise I think.

[JPDyson]

No worries, Josh. The only "problem" I have is with Tabac. Ugh! I hate the smell so much, the soap never touches the bristles of anything I own.


^^ I concur, Tabac makes me feel/smell like I shaved with my grandmother's hairspray- Aquanet to be precise I think.

Uncultured, I swear...

[Leon]

No worries, Josh. The only "problem" I have is with Tabac. Ugh! I hate the smell so much, the soap never touches the bristles of anything I own.


^^ I concur, Tabac makes me feel/smell like I shaved with my grandmother's hairspray- Aquanet to be precise I think.

Blasphemy!! :)

[Harvitz81]

Two uses and I can already say this brush is going to be a keeper. A little scritchy on the first use, but noticeably softer on the second. I think I'm going to use this for a month straight to get it nice and broke in before going back to the rotation. Plenty of backbone and density for me. For $45, what an absolute steal!

[Harvitz81]

Well, I'm going to keep talking to myself here. 3 uses in and this is becoming one of my favorites! I'm giddy with anticipation at where this baby is going to be in a month. Semogue really nailed this one and of the LEs I own (2009 boar, and semogue blue), I already like this one better.

[nathanb]

You guys are making me really regret selling mine... :closedeye:crying:

[Intrigued]

So far I'm really liking this brush! It has nice backbone, good flow through, and just bit of scritch without being at all scratchy. While the handle is not the most ergonomic design, I did not find it at all awkward to use. In fact the richness of the handle's color has repeatedly caught my eye as I've used it. This has added a new and surprising element to the enjoyment of using this brush.

181906

[Harvitz81]

So far I'm really liking this brush! It has nice backbone, good flow through, and just bit of scritch without being at all scratchy. While the handle is not the most ergonomic design, I did not find it at all awkward to use. In fact the richness of the handle's color has repeatedly caught my eye as I've used it. This has added a new and surprising element to the enjoyment of using this brush.

181906


I'm actually really digging the handle. Works pretty well for my hands. I bet in a couple weeks this sucker has no scritch remaining.

On a side note, do I recognize that Darwin?

[sanfranciscian]

I really like the handle a lot myself, the brush is really improving with every use (4x) now. I am still sticking with my belief that this thing has near the backbone of my 620, if nothing else it is a very unique brush that will be staying around for the long haul. used it with a cream today, seems criminal with the way it munches soap.

Ian

[Intrigued]

I'm actually really digging the handle. Works pretty well for my hands. I bet in a couple weeks this sucker has no scritch remaining.

On a side note, do I recognize that Darwin?

:biggrin: No, that's our "user" Deluxe, so we don't put wear and tear on the case of the cased Darwin Deluxe.
Actually this is the Darwin my husband currently uses while I'm using the Standard I bought from you. We're testing out various blades to try and find a blade we both like in the Darwin as much as the no longer made Iridium.

[Harvitz81]

:biggrin: No, that's our "user" Deluxe, so we don't put wear and tear on the case of the cased Darwin Deluxe.
Actually this is the Darwin my husband currently uses while I'm using the Standard I bought from you. We're testing out various blades to try and find a blade we both like in the Darwin as much as the no longer made Iridium.

Iridiums were my favorite blade for it as well. I found Shark SS, red personnas and crystals to work quite well too (at least if I recall that as it's been awhile ago now).

[Bandik]

as of Today-- I'am the Proud Owner of # 92

( and- to me-- it smells rather ...pleasant , even-- before the bath...)

[global_dev]

i got mine yesterday. it sat in the post office since the 11th. nice feel, i didn't smell any funk, but when i did an arko lather clean, i got the napthalene scent big time. excited to use this. i wonder if i can get this in a 27mm knot....

[dougr]

I received my Caravela LE #15 about a month ago and there is no odor at all. It is like my other Semogue LE's very unique and they have a tremendous amount of thought, testing, and feedback from many of our friends on these Boards. Mostly I use the 2009 LE Badger with horn handle and have not used the two newest ones yet. Anticipation.....? Here are some pictures and one is with a NIB Pre-Vulfix Beaufort 6 that I just got yesterday.

[Bandik]

I have Received my # 92 : Thank YOU !!

[rearviewmirror]

Just got back from a week at the beach and had #88 waiting for me, along with some 444. And a fountain pen....which I need ink for.
It smelled pretty bad, so I gave it a bath with some Sandalwood and then some XXX. It's going to need a few more scrubs, i'm going to bust out a puck
of VDH deluxe, possibly arko. I really like the brush though.

[JPDyson]

The Caravela impressed me today in the performance department. It's rapidly improving in the area of 2nd pass lather quality/quantity, and scritch is decreasing as boar hairs split. Soap of the day was Cade, which is certainly easy enough to lather, but the Caravela got the best out of it.

I'm calling this one a keeper, even though the boar hair has barely begun to break in. Heck of a brush for just over $40.

[global_dev]

i just used mine... sweet compromise between badger and boar... i like it. alot.

[mftoms59]

No worries, Josh. The only "problem" I have is with Tabac. Ugh! I hate the smell so much, the soap never touches the bristles of anything I own.


^^ I concur, Tabac makes me feel/smell like I shaved with my grandmother's hairspray- Aquanet to be precise I think.

Thanks... More For Me!

[sanfranciscian]

still loving the brush, trying to get the thread back to some kind of location?

Ian

[Omega_baby]

87 arrived here in Perth, Western Australia on friday. Brush is great, smell is no different from any other new brush. Break in period begins, but after 3 uses im already very happy with the purchase.

BST-.....you wont be eating mine

[JPDyson]

Noticed the tips are getting softer faster. Well, that's not entirely fair - most of the tips were already very soft, just the scritchy ones are starting to number fewer with each passing day.

[CzechCzar]

How often are you guys using yours? I have heard that to get the tips to split faster, you should let your brush dry out all the way in-between uses (i.e., use it only every other day). It would be sweet to be able to use this every day though! Any thoughts?


Noticed the tips are getting softer faster. Well, that's not entirely fair - most of the tips were already very soft, just the scritchy ones are starting to number fewer with each passing day.

[PozzSka]

How often are you guys using yours? I have heard that to get the tips to split faster, you should let your brush dry out all the way in-between uses (i.e., use it only every other day). It would be sweet to be able to use this every day though! Any thoughts?

I've never owned a brush that didn't completely dry in 24 hours...SOC, Duke 3, Rooney 3/1...so I'm sure this particular brush would dry in 24 hours. When breaking in a boar brush I would lather it up every evening while my kids bathed for several days, then just start to use it normally.

EDIT: I'm sure there are some larger brushes that might take longer.

[sanfranciscian]

Mine seems to be very dry after 24 hrs. so i have been using it daily for a week now. Every day seems to still show improvement.

Ian

[raisindot]

You guys are making me really regret selling mine... :closedeye:crying:

I'll you mine...for 500 American dollars! :w00t:

[Altair]

You guys are making me really regret selling mine... :closedeye:crying:

Oh.... I would NEVER sell mine. Its the BEST!..... Id rather trow away half the crap Ive got before I let mine go.

[JPDyson]

My boar break-in routine is always:

Upon receipt:
- A warm water soak, 10 minutes
- Palm lather Dawn dish soap
- Rinse, palm lather MWF x2
- Optionally, palm lather something heavily scented for funky brushes
- Whatever the last soap is, that lather will stay in the brush for several hours

Following Two Weeks:
- Lather the brush every other day (sometimes using it for that day's shave, sometimes just a quick palm lather)

After That:
-Just use it

So, during the break-in, it gets an "off" day between each lather. I think this helps the hair split, but my evidence is purely anecdotal. After that first two weeks or so, it just goes into the rotation (which isn't strict at all, but it won't ever get used two days in a row).

HTH.

[global_dev]

I am actually really impressed with this mixed knot. It has a feel that is just awesome. I asked VS for a larger knot because i think this might be the on the path of the best compromise for me. Alas a no go.

[JPDyson]

Why is this in Shopping and Deals? It's a discussion of the brush (that isn't even available anymore).

[nemo]

Why is this in Shopping and Deals? It's a discussion of the brush (that isn't even available anymore).

Who knows? I couldn't find it after I got my brush and finally found it here. Weird move -- maybe someone should start a new review thread.

Anyways, #98 is working well despite the funk. Whew, she was a smelly one! For a mixed hair brush it sure behaves like a badger, no clumping or splaying. I'm seriously impressed.

[_MementoMori_]

I just stopped by to echo what some of you guys have been saying. I can tell already that the Caravela is going to become one of my favorite brushes... if not my ABSOLUTE favorite. The thing just destroys soap, but it's already soft on the face with just a little bit of desired scritchiness. It also doesn't hog the lather deep down in the base of the knot. It lets go of it perfectly on the face. I think the size and loft is perfect. It's the only brush I've reached for since getting it in the mail.

[sanfranciscian]

I am also a little confused why we got sent to the back of the bus, but i agree lets get a new page going in the brushes, smells a little bit like politics? any way my brush is coming along just fine and looking forward to giving it a couple more weeks of solid break in.

Ian

[Waldo_vt]

I have been using mine every day for the past week now and it keeps getting softer and better! Quick question for you guys out there: If you are face lathering soaps with the Carabela are you using pucks or sticks?

I have turned into a soap guy but most of my soaps are in stick form (Tabac, Palmolive, and Arko) with the exception of MWF. Now the Caravela is a real monster (fast and loads of lather) with the MWF but I'm still having issues getting a good lather in a short time with the shave sticks. I can get great lather with Tabac / Arko but it takes about 2-3x the time of my 404B. Now perhaps I am having issues getting the correct water balance with the brush as it really seems to absorb water.

Thoughts?

[sanfranciscian]

I have been using mine every day for the past week now and it keeps getting softer and better! Quick question for you guys out there: If you are face lathering soaps with the Carabela are you using pucks or sticks?

I have turned into a soap guy but most of my soaps are in stick form (Tabac, Palmolive, and Arko) with the exception of MWF. Now the Caravela is a real monster (fast and loads of lather) with the MWF but I'm still having issues getting a good lather in a short time with the shave sticks. I can get great lather with Tabac / Arko but it takes about 2-3x the time of my 404B. Now perhaps I am having issues getting the correct water balance with the brush as it really seems to absorb water.

Thoughts?

I too have noticed this brushes tendency to hold water and have made my adjustment for this so that i shake out all of the water and add the water directly to my soap. I have milled all of my soaps down and press them in to bowls for easy access and have really never tried using sticks. so far i prefer this method.

Ian

[shanman]

Looking to buy one of these due to the hype, if someone is not in love with it, please pm me. Thanks!

[marcel]

Two months later and I'm still in love with this great brush! What's your opinion of it now?

[nEver-Ready]

Two months later and I'm still in love with this great brush! What's your opinion of it now?

Love mine. It's near perfect.

[CzechCzar]

+1000. This and the SOC are all I use!!


Love mine. It's near perfect.

[oversaturn]

Why is this thread on the "shopping and deals" section of the forum is something that puzzles me... shouldn't be on the "Brushes" section?

[Waldo_vt]

Two months later and I'm still in love with this great brush! What's your opinion of it now?

It is a great brush - It has replaced my V-404B as my daily brush (well it is only my third brush after the 404B and an Omega 83 - the slightly smaller cousin of the 48/49 Pro...). If / when I get another brush it will definitely another Semogue. My only issue is that it really holds water and every now and then I forget to remove the extra water and generate some "foamy" lather.

Enjoy!

[global_dev]

i couldn't agree more with you guys... i am shocked how sweet it is and how it continues to impress...

[shanman]

Still looking to try one of these, if anyone has any leads please keep me in mind. Thanks!!