Well, sad to say but my week with the razor is up. It's been an interesting time - I've definitely learned that, at least for the moment, a slant isn't an every day razor for me. I've had four shaves with her, with slightly variable results, but my general findings are:
1. It all gets easier once you stop looking at the head of the razor and go by feel - trying to judge that twisted visage just confuses the novice. Use the force, Luke!
2. A light touch is all important - she will whisk whiskers away with no effort at all. Pressure just strips layers of epidermis.
3. I never truly got to grips with against the grain passes! WTG / XTG, I actually found the shave to be comfortable and not that aggressive. ATG really brought home the fact that there was a lot of blade coming into contact with my face.
As of today, I'm happy to go back to my EJ89 and Slim Adjustable - although I'd enjoy a few more shaves with the slant. But I have a terrible feeling that, as the weeks pass, I'll end up hankering after one of these fine ladies.
Thanks for the opportunity to try the experience! PM sent to jmec, who I believe is next on the list.
All the best
Stu