The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I may pick up this shaver for $20 but want to make sure its not missing
any parts since its not currently running. Can you guys tell if anything
is missing? Thanks!

The knife is always the most critical part when you buy a shaver. Beside that, no one could tell from the photo, it appears to be complete.

There might be a belt to replace and even the motor could have its issues. I also see some areas that appear to have some rust which should be fine with steel wool and a good portion of elbow grease. 20 bucks sounds to me like a good price.

Does it have the little light at the back? I can't see it. I have this shaver and there is a handy little light that fits on the back of the shaver weight. ( At least mine does)

Does anyone know where replacement blades can be found? I have a Columbia business shaver but the blade is dull and doesn't leave a clean surface. It seems no one makes replacements. Are they available? If not, I'm wondering if a company that makes synthetic sapphire/ruby surgical cutting blades could do a limited production run and what the cost per unit would be.

Thanks for the advice guys! I think I a will hold out for one that's in better shape
after all. These come up pretty often and I am not too good with metal restoration.

scullylathe wrote:Does anyone know where replacement blades can be found? I have a Columbia business shaver but the blade is dull and doesn't leave a clean surface. It seems no one makes replacements. Are they available? If not, I'm wondering if a company that makes synthetic sapphire/ruby surgical cutting blades could do a limited production run and what the cost per unit would be.

Well, if it's any help: if you can find a jeweler's that have a good gem-cutter, they might be able to re-grind the blade to a sharp edge. In fact, I had a local shop make a new shaver blade for my Home not too long ago; it works pretty well, as far as I can tell - and wasn't terribly expensive.

If you're particularly adventurous, you might try sharpening it yourself, using a very fine diamond hone (available from a good woodworkers' supply shop); rubbing the beveled edge very carefully, and checking the edge frequently through a high- powered magnifier...

Hope this is of some help.

-Bill