Rust issues

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80
Location
Edinburgh
I've spotted a few razors on the bay that I like the look and price off but the chrome head has been pitted with rust dots
Can these be easily removed with a brass wire brush ?
Will the rust keep coming back as the chrome has been compromised ?
Or should I wait till one (that's) in better condition comes along
Looking for razor to use rather than one as a display model
 
If it's rust coming through because the chrome has gone in places, then it is possible to get it off with a brush and/or metal polish such as Peek. However, it will come back, and wire brushing often has the effect of getting under the chrome plate around the spots and lifting more off.

Out of interest, what make/model of razor(s) are you looking at? A lot of old e.g. Gillettes are chromed brass, and whilst damaged chrome on these is unsightly and not a good thing, it's not as bad as chrome on steel. Another one to watch out for is chromed Zamak (old Merkurs, for example, and others). I have a couple of these, bought new, and over time, the chrome has deteriorated and the Zamak has turned to powder/dust. Both these conditions can be mistaken for a rust (i.e. steel razor) problem, especially if the information is from some not especially good or clear photographs.

My own view is that it is generally best to avoid razors that have any amount of surface damage, particularly on the head and especially the top cap. A bit on the handle might just be acceptable, but if you plan to use it, it's likely that the condition will get worse with use.

Of course, it's possible to have razors re-chromed, but it's not cheap and there seems to be a shortage of people doing razor restoration these days. It's best reserved for super-special finds, if then. I'd suggest holding out until something in good or even very good condition shows up.
 
If it's rust coming through because the chrome has gone in places, then it is possible to get it off with a brush and/or metal polish such as Peek. However, it will come back, and wire brushing often has the effect of getting under the chrome plate around the spots and lifting more off.

Out of interest, what make/model of razor(s) are you looking at? A lot of old e.g. Gillettes are chromed brass, and whilst damaged chrome on these is unsightly and not a good thing, it's not as bad as chrome on steel. Another one to watch out for is chromed Zamak (old Merkurs, for example, and others). I have a couple of these, bought new, and over time, the chrome has deteriorated and the Zamak has turned to powder/dust. Both these conditions can be mistaken for a rust (i.e. steel razor) problem, especially if the information is from some not especially good or clear photographs.

My own view is that it is generally best to avoid razors that have any amount of surface damage, particularly on the head and especially the top cap. A bit on the handle might just be acceptable, but if you plan to use it, it's likely that the condition will get worse with use.

Of course, it's possible to have razors re-chromed, but it's not cheap and there seems to be a shortage of people doing razor restoration these days. It's best reserved for super-special finds, if then. I'd suggest holding out until something in good or even very good condition shows up.
It was a black handle 84 super adjustable, I tried uploading a picture but came up with a message that the file was too big ?
I'll give it a miss and wait for a better choice .
Thanks for info and advice , it's much appreciated
 
It was a black handle 84 super adjustable, I tried uploading a picture but came up with a message that the file was too big ?
I'll give it a miss and wait for a better choice .
Thanks for info and advice , it's much appreciated
I've got a 'Black Beauty" in the inventory. Without finding it, I think they're either chrome or nickel-plated brass. Nice razors, but you do need quite smooth doors. The other thing to consider with adjustables is that they have more mechanics than other 3 piece or butterfly razors. Although it doesn't necessarily follow, an adjustable that is a bit moth-eaten on the outside may harbour internal mechanical problems, or at least need serious cleaning to get it working well.
 
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