Glint Eastwood said:
A fairly quick search ( no offence intended ) stated the following........
A "deluxe" Gillette DE (double-edge) razor, typically referring to vintage models like the Gillette NEW Deluxe from the 1930s, featured premium materials, specialized design characteristics, and higher-quality packaging compared to the "regular" or standard models of its era. The shave performance was generally similar to other comparable models, with the primary differences being in construction and presentation.
Key Deluxe Features (Vintage Models)
Premium Materials and Finish: Deluxe models were often available with upgraded finishes, such as 24-karat gold or high-quality chromium plating, whereas standard models might have had less expensive nickel plating.
Distinctive Baseplate Design: The NEW Deluxe razors, specifically, are identifiable by their smooth, flat baseplate, unlike the standard NEW models which featured stabilizer pins.
Enhanced Packaging and Accessories: These razors were typically sold in premium sets that often included genuine leather cases and specialized cardboard shippers or sleeves, which added to their luxury appeal and higher price point.
Specific Sizing Variations: The "deluxe" designation was also associated with certain sizing options, such as the 17mm baseplates found on the NEW Deluxe models, which were a specific variant not as common as other sizes.
Serial Numbering: Some deluxe models, such as the early 1930s versions, were serially numbered on the guard, a feature less common on standard razors.
Balance and Weight: Due to different handle constructions (some being hollow), the weight and balance could vary between deluxe models, offering different ergonomic experiences compared to their standard counterparts.
Summary
The "deluxe" designation primarily signified a more premium product offering in terms of finish, presentation, and specific construction details rather than a fundamentally different shaving mechanism or a significantly more aggressive shave. These features made them more expensive at the time and, due to lower sales, scarcer for collectors today.
,British Aristocrats and my New Deluxe razors.
