Is this Pearl Flexi from the improved production?

[Hobby Hoarder]

I found barely used Pearl Flexi for sale, but I've also read about the QC issues.

The seller gave me the serial number: 21A3321

Here's a photo:

Does anybody know if this is one of the later versions without the issues?

As a follow up questions, is this razor very aggressive on the lowest settings? I currently have a Henson for daily shaving, so I'd like to start on a setting that's fairly similar.

Thanks!

 

[idjekyll]

Ye

I found barely used Pearl Flexi for sale, but I've also read about the QC issues.

The seller gave me the serial number: 21A3321

Here's a photo:
View attachment 1916505


Does anybody know if this is one of the later versions without the issues?

As a follow up questions, is this razor very aggressive on the lowest settings? I currently have a Henson for daily shaving, so I'd like to start on a setting that's fairly similar.

Thanks!

No idea about the version but yes it is a pretty aggressive razor. might want to take your time with it even at the lowest setting. that thing bites like Hannibal Lecter.

 

[flash75]

First of all, which henson do you use? Mild normal or aggressive version?

I had 3 Flexi in total. AFAIK only the very first batch was a little bit different. What they call version is only the production run.
Though mine theoretically were identically they shaved differently. One was more aggressive.

I once tried henson medium and IMHO you cannot compare these razors.

You have to try on your own if the Flexi fits your needs

 

[Hobby Hoarder]

First of all, which henson do you use? Mild normal or aggressive version?

I had 3 Flexi in total. AFAIK only the very first batch was a little bit different. What they call version is only the production run.
Though mine theoretically were identically they shaved differently. One was more aggressive.

I once tried henson medium and IMHO you cannot compare these razors.

You have to try on your own if the Flexi fits your needs

I have the mild version with Feather blades. It works and I eventually get smooth skin, but it feels like it could be a bit more aggressive.

 

[hopper_64]

I found barely used Pearl Flexi for sale, but I've also read about the QC issues.

The seller gave me the serial number: 21A3321

Here's a photo:
View attachment 1916505


Does anybody know if this is one of the later versions without the issues?

As a follow up questions, is this razor very aggressive on the lowest settings? I currently have a Henson for daily shaving, so I'd like to start on a setting that's fairly similar.

Thanks!

Mine have Serial No: 21A0956, I think it's production run #5.
I have had no problems with mine. I mostly use it on setting 5.
One thing to keep in mind is the weight, (140 g).

 

[cpcohen1945]

IMHO -

My Flexi is mild-to-medium at #2.5.. It's mild ( milder than a DE89) at #1.

I think you'll be OK. If you find it too aggressive, switch from Feather to Astra SP blades -- that helped me a lot.

I will check the serial # later.

 

[AshleyC]

If you are serious, then ask the seller to provide photos of even gaps with a blade loaded.

If you can visually detect uneven gaps, then don't buy.

 

[garyg]

Mine's numbered 21A1745, not sure where this fits in the timeline but I have had no issues.. but AshleyC probably has the best tip, serial numbers notwithstanding

 

[Lockback]

I used my Pearl Flexi just this morning with three day's growth.
I was well aware when I bought it (used) that the early models had serious alignment issues and that a lot of YouTube reviewers absolutely excoriated it.
Nonetheless, I was guaranteed that my particular model was a later run (the 12th, if memory serves). And it has been drop dead perfect. No issues.
I do not like aggressive razors, generally. My preference is mild razors with sharp blades.
I did a lot of research prior to going with the Flexi and I chose it partly because some other adjustables seem to be too aggressive even on their mild settings. I have had no such issues with mine. The alignment on all settings is faultless.
This morning, for example, I set it on #3 of 6 for the first pass, then #2, then #1. It yields some of the smoothest, yet closest shaves I've ever had.
I highly recommend the Flexi.
My serial number, for what it's worth, is: 21A3121.

 

[DesertIguana]

Well this Q & A is the reason this is great place to exchange info, and ideas.

Always learning things from these discussions.

 

[Hobby Hoarder]

Thanks everyone for your replies, very helpful!

I ended up buying it - it was almost half the price of new and according to seller, only used a few times (looks like it as well from the photos). Should be arriving in a few days.

 

[Lockback]

Thanks everyone for your replies, very helpful!

I ended up buying it - it was almost half the price of new and according to seller, only used a few times (looks like it as well from the photos). Should be arriving in a few days.

I hope yours is as nice as mine has turned out to be.

 

[jesseix]

I was well aware when I bought it (used) that the early models had serious alignment issues and that a lot of YouTube reviewers absolutely excoriated it.

Today I learned a new word!

 

[Dave himself]

Today I learned a new word!

Hit the follow button for me and you'll learn lots of new words .

 

[cpcohen1945]

IMHO -

My Flexi is mild-to-medium at #2.5.. It's mild ( milder than a DE89) at #1.

I think you'll be OK. If you find it too aggressive, switch from Feather to Astra SP blades -- that helped me a lot.

I will check the serial # later.

Serial number is 21A4777.

I bought it in January 2024, and I think Fendrihan said it was version 11.

Good luck with your new arrival!