Absolutely perfect shave today. The brush is my Whipped Dog 24mm silvertip, and it made a fine lather instantly from RazoRock Cacao shaving soap. The Weber DLC head holds a fairly fresh Gillette 7 O’Clock SharpEdge blade and is mounted on a UFO handle in red bronze—which is definitely my favorite of the materials he uses that I’ve tried. (Note: Have not tried the titanium handle.)
I got an email from Rafael, the maker, yesterday and I quote with his permission:
First of all, thanks for the appreciation you have placed in my work. These handles are made on a lathe, run through my hands. No CNC or computers, etc. And they are completed in a traditional way. No two are exactly alike and can accommodate small differences between them that makes them unique and unrepeatable. All materials used in its manufacture are of the highest quality. 316L stainless steel, bronze, brass, aircraft aluminum, and others that probably I will add. I like research and innovation in this field.
Although my current profession is another, and I do it for love of classic shaving, like you, I have applied my knowledge and studies of the metal work, though not exercised for years. Our common love of classic shaving has caused me to return to this in my search for handles that were made conscientiously and with passion. Hope you enjoy many shaves for many years. I’m sure many handles will reach the hands of your children and even grandchildren or future generations.
Every time I finish a handle a small part of me goes with it. Hours of work, but is a great comfort to know that they go into the hands of people who appreciate them as much as me and who share the same love of classic shaving. I hope with the help of all of us, classic shaving lasts for many years.
From now on, I remain at your disposal for anything you need. Consider me a friend and a fan of classic shaving, like you.
This is an example of why I prefer artisanal to commercial products: there’s an actual person who made the thing. Another reason, of course, is the quality of the products and the excellent prices for something really special.
A splash of Alt-Innsbruck, and I up for the day.
Filed under: Shaving
