Vintage 1930's Dorko German Straight Razor
Another rare and unique find. The present-day enterprise developed out of a plant founded in 1920 by Friedrich Dorten in Solingen-Merscheid which initially produced only barbers' razors and mainly supplied Solingen exporters. Constant growth, however, made it advisable for the firm to start exporting on its own. Soon other articles of the cutlery industry were added to the selection of products. After the Second World War Friedrich Dorten jr. joined the firm and the name was changed to 'DORKO Stahlwarenfabrik Dorten & Co.'. The expansion of the factory made it possible also to increase the range of products, which now included scissors, shaving utensils, manicure and pedicure implements. Particular attention has always been paid to quality, a fact that has made DORKO renowned throughout the world. Today Robert Dorten represents the third generation of the family.
The razor is in great overall condition with no rust. Very well looked after considering it's age. As can be expected after 80+ years, there is some patina and slight pitting on the blade.
The blade will need honing should you want to shave with it. And the traditional way to hone it, is on a leather strop.
And the opinions are universal - there is NO shave like a straight razor shave. Bear in mind that razor manufacturers have moved away from traditional shaving methods to disposable and cartridge systems. WHY? There is no money in it for them with straight razors and even safety razors because they last for ever and DE safety blades are as cheap as chips.
There is a HUGE resurgence worldwide to the traditional wet shave. And the reasons are simple:
1) The best shaves ever
2) Very cheap
3) Very satisfying - nothing like a clean shaved face
4) The nostalgia, the ritual and the smell
And ask yourself the question: Why do all professional barbers worldwide still use traditional shaving tools? So come on people, join the millions who know what a shave should be like!
Here is a nice video tutorial on a straight razor shave - check it out!:
