ShadowsDad
Gem Star
None boring shaver!!
"It's not the bow, it's the Indian"
Posts: 4,534
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Post by ShadowsDad on Jan 29, 2012 23:30:52 GMT -6
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Post by wchnu on Jan 29, 2012 23:39:43 GMT -6
Very nice set. I have several of the VAS but do not know what model they are. I need to look into that some. Do you like the ones that the blade slides in or the one that opens and clamps the blade in more?
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ShadowsDad
Gem Star
None boring shaver!!
"It's not the bow, it's the Indian"
Posts: 4,534
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Post by ShadowsDad on Jan 30, 2012 0:41:18 GMT -6
I can't discuss anything older than the VC1, never having even seen one.
My preference? Definitely the VC1 model, by far, it's the one where the blade slides in. It can also accept a modified modern blade. That allows the use of less expensive blades and gives a selection. Basically, if the blade holder allows one to see at least half of the blade when it's closed, that's a good Valet to have.
The other models are, for me, a real PITA to load the blade and get it right. They can be identified by the blade holder covering the majority of the blade. They are the same models with the punched holes forming pins on the reverse side. They require either a Valet blade or the Feather. There is no good way to modify a blade to fit them.
I have one of each of the other models, and that's plenty of those.
Soon I'll post a review of the VAS' where I discuss them in depth. Right now I have the reviews on ShaveMyFace only. They'll remain there, but I'll bring all of them over here as well. Just wait a bit and you'll have what you want for info right here.
Right now I'm getting comfortable with this forum and perusing it. Soon I'll be up to speed and just need to check new posts and such. Then I'll have time to get 'er done.
There is one good thing about the models that I don't like. The handles are great with their cut knurling and they do fit some other razors. I can't remember which at the moment, but for the dirt cheap price they sell for and the quality of the handle, one can get really good handles as replacements by buying razors that they know they might not like and cannibalizing the handles.
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RocketMan
Gem Star
RazorAddict
Welcome To The Sharp Side!
Posts: 4,167
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Post by RocketMan on Jan 30, 2012 9:47:01 GMT -6
Excellent photos on this wonderful Auto Strop model ShadowsDad!! This exact model of Auto Strop (except not gold) was the first I had the pleasure of being able to call "MINE"! I spent hours ( ) over the first few days enjoying that set up. The box art is just awesome, the metal case is one of the most unique in razor history, the razor was fascinating to hold and examine as my first VAS, the strop........ Awesome razor really!! Thanx for posting this lovely 1920's Model C kit.
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ShadowsDad
Gem Star
None boring shaver!!
"It's not the bow, it's the Indian"
Posts: 4,534
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Post by ShadowsDad on Jan 31, 2012 21:38:05 GMT -6
RM, I just read the write up in Waites (again). That authority states that the nickle plated version was given out as advertisertising with the name of the sponsor on the outer lid. I'd like to discuss with someone who knows a lot more than I do just how rare a gold plated advertiser set is. Waites doesn't mention gold plated sets being used as advertisers. Mine is marked "Menominee Herald-Leader". That newspaper still exists in Michigan. I think the name of the set is "Gold Pal" since that is printed on the end of the cardboard box.
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Post by PJGH on Apr 2, 2014 7:57:33 GMT -6
While researching these as a result of a recent acquisition of my own, I happened across your post here.
I picked up one, quite tatty (just the way I like 'em) and absolutely loved it ... so bought another. I have a silver and a gold set now, both of which have the very simple knurled handle, no lines, no cuts.
The razors have polished up very well, the internal fabric is good in both, but the outsides are in terrible shape. I had wondered about simply boot polishing it, or sand down and re-spray with crinkle paint? I think boot polishing would be nicer, retaining that antique and used feel while cleaning it up a bit.
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