Darwin "safety" razor kit

[awa54]

Today I made a sighting in the wild... a Darwin razor kit, including a handle, a blade and a case that also acts as an automated stroping machine for the blade. The box and instructions were also present, though the box has two broken corners. The razor and case are in super shape, with a few nicks in the blade that ought to hone out if you put it on a stone.

If anyone has to have one of these let me know and I can go claim it, but since I am trying not to collect too many shaving items that I won't actually *use* (and I don't think I'm brave enough to shave with this contraption), I am not going to acquire it for myself. (I think it was around $150, but I'm not totally sure of that)

The item I *did* buy was a gold plated "fat handle" tech in it's original box [no blade case though :( ], the box is pretty worn, but the razor looks like it saw only minimal use! If it doesn't shave well for me it'll likely be a B/S/T item in the next few weeks.

[BBrad]

I can't help you with the Darwin (no personal experience) but the price seems high for something to just look at and not shave with.

As to the Gold Tech - you should find that to be a very smooth and gentle razor. If you find it a little mild, just plan on one extra pass or some touch up. Resist the urge to use more pressure - that will certainly lead to irritation. Some guys like using a Tech with a super-sharp blade, like the Feather.

[kirk 988]

darwins are awsome i havnt seen one on here for ages they comend more thant that i think

[alex2363]

Today I made a sighting in the wild... a Darwin razor kit, including a handle, a blade and a case that also acts as an automated stroping machine for the blade. The box and instructions were also present, though the box has two broken corners. The razor and case are in super shape, with a few nicks in the blade that ought to hone out if you put it on a stone.

If anyone has to have one of these let me know and I can go claim it, but since I am trying not to collect too many shaving items that I won't actually *use* (and I don't think I'm brave enough to shave with this contraption), I am not going to acquire it for myself. (I think it was around $150, but I'm not totally sure of that)

The item I *did* buy was a gold plated "fat handle" tech in it's original box [no blade case though :( ], the box is pretty worn, but the razor looks like it saw only minimal use! If it doesn't shave well for me it'll likely be a B/S/T item in the next few weeks.

like this?

[ShavinBacon]

darwins are awsome i havnt seen one on here for ages they comend more thant that i think

I think you are referring to the Darwin Deluxe DE Razor which does command a premium (because it is the absolute best DE razor ever made...IMHO ). It seems the OP is referring to what Alex posted above which was Darwin's version of a Rolls Razor. They are usually not that expensive.

[jkingrph]

I think you are referring to the Darwin Deluxe DE Razor which does command a premium. It seems the OP is referring to what Alex posted above which was Darwin's version of a Rolls Razor. They are usually not that expensive.

Agreed, I purchased one then another off ebay a few months back, and have nowhere near half that invested in both and they are pristine,

[awa54]

That's the beast! And in similar condition except for the blade edge, which needs a good rework to be shave worthy.

So, how do they shave?

like this?

[themba]

And it's also an adjustable razor. Also, the kit only came with a strop, unlike the Rolls, which had a strop and a hone.

[jkingrph]

And it's also an adjustable razor. Also, the kit only came with a strop, unlike the Rolls, which had a strop and a hone.

Yes, that screw in the center of the blade is the adjustment for blade angle and thus exposure.

[awa54]

......so, how do they shave???

[Chester]

......so, how do they shave???

I have one of these, and when I was in my Rolls Razor phase I gave it a whirl. I stropped the blade (which is in really good shape) and gave it a whirl. Like the Rolls, It's a sort of straight on a stick, but the holder is more like what you get on a Henckels Rapide or a Heljestrand, or maybe a Wilkinson Pall Mall 7-day set: Head heavy, lots of good acoustic feedback, but a largely passable shave. If you put the effort into getting a great edge, I'll bet it could be very rewarding. The Rolls is just easier to manage, in my opinion.
-- Chet

[hutchster]

I picked up one of these at an antique bazaar of sorts and felt i overpaid at $30, sure it looks cool, but just like my rolls razor's it simply sits on the shelf as i'm to much of a wuss to try them out :(