So, Kara and I went to Planted Earth so she could buy a couple flowers. What I didn't know was that PE is an antiques store. What I *also* didn't know is that hidden in a display case was a 1917 Gillette Aristocrat razor. I had a feeling when I was hunting around that there was something nice, somewhere.
The razor was in its original case. The case wasn't much to look at, but it's original. The razor was extremely tarnished, as well. (The 1917 Aristocrats are triple-plated silver.) I mean bad. I thought it was pitted, too. Still, I couldn't help but take it home with me. I know that Aristocrats are highly coveted in the classic shaving realm. So, it was worth the risk to see what kind of shape it was really in.
Which... was... AWESOME! I gave it a good bath to get rid of the tarnish and can NOT believe the condition of this razor. It's 93 years old, but looks like it's been used for a year, maybe. Apart from micro scratches that are pretty much a fact of life with silver that is used to constantly slide over something (like stubbly skin) it's just in great shape. No bends, nicks, etc. Apart from the slightly used (but not worn) finish, it's phenomenal. I just can't get over how nice it is.
Some poking around on the forums confirms that this is an extremely rare find. I've already gotten a letter of interest from a collector, but I really don't know what it's worth yet. They are hard enough to find pictures of, so I don't imagine that asking for at least $100 is even remotely unheard of. Time will tell. Of course I'll have to shave with it at least once. ;)
