Just had my first use with the Timeless OC. Having bought a few high end razors, I am really looking to concentrate the collection. So I set up an experiment.
Obviously this is my first shave and I usually need at least 7 shaves, before properly understanding the razor.
Aim:
To find an OC razor that can be truly described as a daily driver for me. That is around a 7/8 on a Merkur Progress with minimal irritation. Along with this level of aggression, I obviously want an excellent finish to my razor; akin to the Wolfman. I think this is justified given the similar pricing. This is based on its cost to the UK, which incurred an additional £50 (just under) customs & RM handling charge.
Hypothesis:
As I highly regard the Wolfman in all aspects I was doubtful that the Timeless would be better.
1. The open comb 'department' is very different between the two razors. The Timeless having longer and thicker teeth. Less blade exposure so a milder OC?
2. Finishing- IMO nothing beats the Wolfman. The PILS razor is on par, again IMO. I haven't handled the BBS or Weber. So will it have a less than 'Wolfman perfect' feel (metal to face). After my first pass, when I use thinner lather, this is important to me. Will the finish be on par with the Wolfman?
3. With respect to the surface design of the top cap. Not sure how it will feel or if it will have any effect. Will it help with the shave at all?
Method:
Comparing it to my other OC razors:
From left to right (the first picture only shows SS razors)
Fatip Grande, Ikon OCC, ATT R2, ATT S2, Wolfman OC (0.74mm), Timeless OC.
Soap: Razor Master Ari (Pine)
Brush: Shavemac 2 band silvertip
Measuring face feel is subjective. I analyse:
How the blade feels against the skin. How much of the blade edge is exposed.
How comfortable the shave is in terms of irritation, following a usual two pass shave.
Results:
IMO with respect to SS razors, aggression/face feel and efficiency (first being the mildest):
Ikon
ATT R2
Timeless
ATT S2
Wolfman (O.74mm) with a WRH2 handle.
The Timeless OC sits just after the ATT R2. I use my R2 on a Kronos handle with a Shark blade. It is smooth, efficient, hassle free. Around a 6 on a Progress, hardly any 'bark'.
The Timeless OC holds the blade with absolute solidarity. No movement. On removing the blade it was moulded onto the under-side of the top cap. The angle allows for more blade-face feel and 'apparent' contact. The OC component is smooth on the face and the head beautifully weighted. It's size is excellent. I fell out of favour with the Futur and Mongoose due to this. Audible feedback is very good. It is the loudest OC I own. The sound being a pleasant 'hum' rather than 'scratch'.
Timeless OC is finished very well, only the underside of the top cap had slight markings. Very minor. The handle had very good grip. Balance and overall weight was substantial and to my liking.
I have to admit the top cap felt nice on the face, no drag. However, after just two passes it's too difficult to ascertain the full, effective function. A more universal measure would suggest a 6.5/7 on a progress. Again IMO and after only one shave. Zero irritation.
Conclusion:
A very well made razor. A unique face feel to my current connection of OC razors. In fact I would only put the R2 and Fatip, as having similar face feel.
I will be trying the Timeless with my WRH2 handle to increase the level of aggression. A sharper blade may also be a good idea to try. I definitely will be keeping it, even without this added aggression it feels, sounds and looks fantastic. Thanks for all the info DB!
