ABC Questions...

[Blue-EyedSon]

I just managed to track down two more ABC's (at least I think that's what they both are). I've got a couple of questions regarding each...

Razor one : This one is an ABC with the scroll handle. The razor itself is in pretty good shape, but the latch portion of the case is broken off (see the photo below). Is there anything that can be done to repair this?

Razor two: I'm not sure what this razor is considered. Is it considered an ABC or a Gillette Pocket Edition? According to AsylumGuido's guide to identifying three piece designs, it looks like there is a difference between an ABC and a Gillette Pocket Edition, at least it appears that way based on how it is worded. If there is a difference, which would this be considered? If it helps, the serial number is D331117. The handle has the tiniest crack, which I didn't even notice until I cleaned it up. I'm assuming that unless the crack doesn't get worse, then I shouldn't worry about it, right? Also, the case is an Empire design, but it lacks the typical Pocket Edition imprint on the reverse side (see photo). I suppose it is possible that it was worn off, as the back of the case does appear to have some wear, but I don't think so. Do some ABC cases lack the Pocket Edition imprint on the back?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Hoos]

The ABC Pocket Edition razors, specifically, had the intricately designed handles and their matching cases. They were considered a set.

There are several varieties of Gillette "Pocket Editions" (the ABC being one of them). The ABC Pocket Edition cases also included the patent information on the outside bottom of the case, and the King Gillette signature.

Separate from the ABCs were nearly identical pocket edition cases (as far as design on the lid), but the outside bottoms of the cases were either smooth or had three square indentations. Most often (as far as I know), those cases came with the ball-tipped handle with the textured band, as in your second picture.

The "Brownie" sets and some of the small, cloth (leather, too?) sets were also considered "pocket editions".

 

[thirdeye]

Nice job answering these questions Brent...Spot on sir!

As far as fixing the latch, no there is no fixing. The only thing you can do is to fabricate a new latch piece and replacing the existing latch.

 

[Oldguy]

Here's the way I see the early pocket sets. The earliest ABC sets had the latch and the patent dates on the bottom. Not every set was matched case and razor handle, there was some mix and match sets.
A little latter the latch was replaces with the push button latch and had the latch spring attached by two rivets spaced fairly wide apart. There were no patent dates on the bottom. I find matches and mix and matched sets and I believe they were made by ABC as well.
The third type also used the push button cases and no bottom patents. I generally see these sets with the Gillette ball end pocket razors.
I have sets of the first two types dated between 1909 and 1911. The newer cases are of the third type.
The only thing I've read about when the ABC sets were made is that it was for several years. The info above is from my experience only. I would like to see more definitive info on these sets.
Len

 

[thirdeye]

Len, I think it's time you take a roadtrip to my shop for research and that way you can report in on ABC's.....You could be the ABC Guru...

 

[Blue-EyedSon]

Thanks guys for the helpful info. I tried searching for some info on making a new latch, but I couldn't find anything, which doesn't at all mean that it's not here. Can someone point me in the right direction?

 

[Oldguy]

Len, I think it's time you take a roadtrip to my shop for research and that way you can report in on ABC's.....You could be the ABC Guru...

Ray, I'm thinking of passing through on Wednesday, Nov. 18th. Are you always at the shop? I've got the link to your website. Should be no problem if it doesn't snow.

Len