Mark, I'm right there with you. I have a 1964 Slim and a 1959 Fatboy. The Fatboy is a little smoother and feels just right. It has that Wow factor as you said.
Great video! This past week I happened upon a Fatboy/Slim haul at my local antique store! A 1959 CASED FB in great shape With blue blades, a 1960 FB with some plate loss but shaveable and three slims : 1962, 1963 and 1964. Total damage:$60! Lucky me! Verdict is still out as ALL shave well. The bargains are out there. You just have to poke around and ask! So far the antique stores have been my best source for vintage. Thanks again for inspiring me to try out these gems Mark!
@@greg6162 Great! And always have fun looking. You never know what you may find. My very first vintage double edge razor was a 1930s Gillette NEW long comb that was in fantastic shape. Dissatisfied with cartridges and disposables I had been investigating wet shaving and Amazon and was about to go "all in" and plunk down a ton of $ on brand new stuff when I happened upon an antique store in 2018. Total damage: $5 for that NEW and I still use it. Great razor! I never paid more than $12 for a vintage Gillette. It took some time and patience to scout the gems. Plus it freed up $ for a cupboard full of soaps and blades! LOL! Happy hunting!
@@albertcadiz7000 Jackpot! I just found a Gillette 1947 Superspeed with the Gillette Super Blue blades dispenser and in a military issued micromatic WWI case with an American flag on the belly of an eagle for $20?! This thing is almost mint… the handle has slight discoloration if it catches the light the right way. But this razor was looked after and the guy was a WWII vet and he got everything from the estate sale from the daughter. I can’t believe how smooth the TTO action is… this is the Gen3 I believe which started production in July of 1947 to 1966. This is definitely older because Gillette didn’t start using date codes until 1951 I believe. It’s similar to the milady but a nickel finish. Very nice and worth the $20 to me for the razor, the blue blade dispenser and the WWII micromatic case. I don’t think I’ll use the blades to shave but it’s nice to have and probably the nicest looking DE blade I’ve ever seen with the dark blue tint. I just cleaned, disinfected and polished with Weiman multi purpose metal polish. This razor looks fantastic… now I’m about to shower and shave with it. Never used a vintage Gillette before and I have a E3 1959 Fatboy coming two days from now. The build quality of these vintage Gillette’s are just pure quality
@@greg6162Way to go on that great superspeed find! Thats a major bargain with razor in great shape, vintage blades and a case! I myself never tried a superspeed but I am on the lookout for a black handle SS with my birth quarter and year. As I mentioned before i too have a 1959 FatBoy. It was in very good shape and must have been lightly used. Its got a good hand feel and is a finely crafted piece of equipment. You are right about quality. Its amazing how many Vintage Gillettes are still in circulation. My first DE was vintage and I sorta got hooked on going vintage. I tried the Blue Blades once for notstalgias sake. Rough shave! I didn't get cut but they really drag. I normally shave with Astra Superior Platinums in the green label and the German-made Personnas. Anyway Greg, enjoy your new find and that 59 FB. FatBoys are a Holy Grail for a lot of us!
Hi Mark- Great Gillette Adjustable razors comparison video; thank you! This was a very nice side by side evaluation of these two razors. I believe my Fatboy just edges out the Sliim Adjustable, performance-wise for me, as well. I’m glad to have these two vintage Gillette’s in my collection. Well, I hope you have a great weekend ahead of you, Mark, and all the best!
I felt the difference immediately between the two. The Fatboy was smoother. I wouldn't throw away the Slim.:) It's a terrific razor in its own right.:) But there is just SOMETHING about the Fatboy that simply has that WOW factor.:)
I've not used a slim, but I've heard many people say that a top heavy razor makes for a closer and easier shave. I imagine the Fatboy has a little heavier head based on looks. I know I love my Fatboys
Great shave, yet again, Mark. If I were a newer wet shaver living in the US, I would look at West Coast Shaving's house brand synthetic brushes. They are very beautifully made, attractive and very very competitively priced. Hey Mark? Any chance of you doing a shave with Mitchell's Wool Fat?
Thank you.:) WCS is a very good online seller.:) I have an account and you're correct. Really nice selection of synthetic brushes.:) Some are on sale.:) Overall, great prices!:) I did a shave with Mitchell's Wool Fat.:) Here it is: ua-cam.com/video/4dMC4vC8KCk/v-deo.html However, I've got a new MWF puck, so perhaps I need to do an update.:)
Great comparison Mark. You were as excited as us making it as we were to watch it 😂. Ironic timing I just ordered some aqua velva classic like this. I used to use it when I started shaving & missed it. I ordered the musk version too since I’ve never seen that in person. For $3 on Amazon why not!
amazing how ymmv applied more to the shaving world then almost anything else. I have three slims and two fat boys and depending on the blade, cream combo many times the slim is better for me. I think though that there is definitely a mental factor that the fat boy is so hyped up now that the supply and demand just makes the fat boy more desirable. love your vids and new subscriber!!
Thank you very much, germanshepherd13! Appreciate the kind words and thanks for subscribing. I think you make a very valid point. The Fatboy is more desirable for a variety of reasons. Part of the reason may be the limited number of years they were made, etc. Love my slim razors and they give great shaves, but yeah, the hype around the Fatboy boosts its mystique. :)
@@MarkSzorady hi.thats what got me wanting a fatboy the mystique lol. Slim's are great too like you said. I love all the vintage razors. Get great shaves even with the common cheap ones. Keep up the great vids Jeff
When I shave in the morning the lather is nice and warm but when I go to do a 2nd or even a 3rd pass I always have to re-lather my brush each time in hot water because by the time I'm ready to re-lather the soap is cold and cold lather doesn't give me a nice close comfortable shave, so what can I do to keep the lather constantly warm and I use an apothecary shaving mug as l don't have a scuttle (as l understand they can keep the lather warm throughout the whole shave).
Anthony, you may want to try the travel scuttle from, PAA. Lightweight and made form Polypropylene, it retains heat well. From the product page: "Also, just like ceramic, polypropylene is known for its miraculous ability to hold and maintain heat...and for that reason, it is the #1 fiber used today in insulated underwear...which you just might be wearing right now...creepy, no? but I digress..." Also from the product page: "But Why Microwave Safe Doug? "Good question. This again is for the sake of time and convenience. I have noticed that most hotels, motels and even hostels with their shared kitchen areas have microwaves. 1 minute in the microwave and you are ready to shave! Heck, if there's no Mic around, you can always use the coffee maker in the room to boil water! "Use Boiling Water? I thought that was a no, no Doug? "Well, historically this is. If you have ever used boiling water in a ceramic scuttle you will see very fast that it can fry the foam and really kill any hope of getting a good lather...But with the Crown King Travel Scuttle, it's a little different in that regard. "The polypropylene works like a buffer and shields the lather from the effects of the boiling water. It just behaves differently than traditional ceramic and tends to rewrite this old rule. "I personally don't use boiling water but it's nice to know that if I need to, I can. 1 minute in the mic or the tap at its hottest works fine most of the time!" So, you may want to give this scuttle a look. The Intergalactic Indestructible Shatterproof Travel Scuttle by Phoenix Shaving: bit.ly/2NnAMhG (Affiliate Link)
I found what I believe is these exact two razors at an Antique mall for $15. There's some surface blemishes, but other than that, I am very happy with my purchase!
I know this vid is 3 yrs old , but just to say the fatboy was my very first razor in the sixties. Dont know what happened to it, as i setup house with my wife. Years later, and getting more serious about wet shaving i picked up a replated fatboy on ebay in beutiful condition. Brings back memories every time i use it. It has a G 2 mark underneath which tells me it was made in 1961 in the first quarter. Still gives me a bbs everytime.
Steve, thanks for taking the time to leave a comment and view the video. So very glad you were ablet to get a wonderful Fatboy to replace the one that was misplaced.:) They are awesome razors. Plus, the connection to a wonderful memory just by simply using a favorite/special razor makes the traditional wet shave all the more worthwhile.:)
How much was the replating? I just scored an eBay e1 fatboy in moderately good condition but needs cleaned and plated. 42.00 eBay auction score. Razor emporium is 70 which I know is worth it but just curious.
Great shave. I’ve been a wet shaver for over 10 years. I have some nice razors including a Rex Ambassador and Rockwell T2 and really enjoy adjustables. I just picked up my first vintage razor off ebay, a near mint Gilette Slim from 1968. I can’t wait. I still haven’t tried Tabac, but it’s on my list.
I like the profile of the Slim it gets under the nose easier, cant go wrong with either. They certainly dont make them like they used too thats for sure.
Mark, now I am scared of shaving my mustache with my Gillette Fusion 5 power razor and also with my Gillette Gold Executive Adjustable DE Razor. So I trim my mustache with a pair of scissors everytime I shave. I have oily skin that's why I look much younger than my age though I am over 72 years old.! I shave every alternate day. Thankyou.
New comparison with these two razors would be worth doing. Do without changing face sides for each razor. One of the razors for left side and the other razor for right-side. (I just saw the MMMB for aug. 28, 2023 in which you mentioned outer differences of the razors).
They work great but I had the same problem with the doors sticking a bit. I thought “I’ve seen this happen before with this blade!” 😁 It’s the only blade that makes the doors stick. Great blade though!
Tabac makes a beautiful lather, and the Slim and fat boy are both great shavers:) Mark could it be the glue on the Silver Blue blades that is causing the sticking?
Mark Szorady I have the same blades and recognize they use more glue than other blades, I like how they package these but still prefer the Gillette Platinum blades.
Great shave, Mark. I have my Dad's Fat Boy E-4 and my Slim K-1 (1st razor I ever bought when 16). I shave with them fairly regularly but have never done a comparison shave, I will now have to do that!! From what I remember my Fat Boy is just a tad more aggressive than my Slim. I have another Fat Boy I bought years ago and am thinking of having it Rhodium plated.
Claude, oh man!:) Beautiful to hear this! How special is that? To have your dad's Fatboy!:) Wonderful!:) and the fact that you still have YOUR slim.:) Really awesome!:) Wise move to have the spare Fatboy re-plated. :)
I bought one on eBay for $60… it looks amazing in the pictures and I looked at a bunch. Listed as *Excellent condition, fully functional* so I’m hoping it’s mechanically sound. I have QD thinking of the rhodium plated too from razor emporium. Do you have a video of how your razor turned out?
I've got a slim coming in the mail in a few days. fatboy pricing is a bit ridiculous at this point. the slim will be close enough, for what i spent (ebay).
Yes, as the Traditional Wet Shave continues to gain popularity, pricing on these vintage razors will continue to rise. Glad you got a Slim. Terrific razor.:) Enjoy!
Another great video Mark, really would like to find a fatboy or slim in mint condition for a reasonable price, unfortunately they are not that easy to find here in Europe (Belgium) not to mention the crazy price tag some put on it so if you happen to know someone who sells them please let me know
Now this is my kinda video!!! Love Gillette Adjustables and Adjustable Safety Razors in general! 💈😁✌️💈 That’s funny my Slim and FatBoy are also J-4 1964 and E-3 1959 And yesterday my 100 pack of Gillette Silver Blue’s arrived from eBay . I’ve been traditional wishing for over a year and this is only my second hundred pack I bought. This past November I bought a 100 pack of Nacets
Mark Szorady no it never happened to me. But it did happen to me with a blade with out glue lol. I think if you open it to first or too slow the blade falls down and gets stuck. Could be the doors to like you’re lazy door on your specific razor
Never seen that jamming..... yet my last 3 buys came so filthy and with a rusted blade....i just exposed them to boiling water with dawn and repeated x 4 before I opened them. Then the Cleaning bubbles deal and then ultrasonic cleaner that shook out a LOT of dirt. Repeated steps 1,2 then put some drops of mineral oil down the center. Finished w alcohol 90% for 5min. I prefer the Fat....and the most aggressive is the 109. Cheers , nice video.... BTW I had some slide showing the blade gaps.... bigger in the thin. Fat is a must
Thanks for the tips.:) I may follow up on this.:) I'm going to try some other blades and see if it persists. As others have suggested, could just be glue on the blade.:)
@@MarkSzorady It is amazing the amount of gunk that is stuck inside the handle....after soaking w hot water+soap x 3 I put it head down in the ultrasonic cleaner and a lot more filthy stuff came out.....
Hi, loriolus. I need to do a side by side comparison video.:) Thanks for reminding me.:) I think both are smooth, but the Fatboy seems to have a bit more milder edge to it. However, I don't use the Fatboy at higher settings. Also, it could just be that there is less blade exposure at setting 5 on the Fatboy when compared to setting 5 on the Meiji (as an example). When it comes to weight, the Meiji is a beast. The Fatboy have nice weight but not much greater than that of the Slim. The feel of the Meiji is substantial. The Fatboy is good, but the Meiji has so much more. I like the fact that the Fatboy requires an extra quarter turn to lock things in place. However it only clicks in place when adjsuting. So, there's no 5.5 setting on the Fatboy. Whereas, the Meiji has smooth and continuous adjustment.
Nice comparison… I thought you only used Vikings razors? I just bought my first vintage Gillette… an E3 1959 Fatboy listed as *Excellent condition, fully functional* for $60 shipped. Hopefully, it’s mechanically sound. I didn’t know that the Gillette slim had a slimmer t-bar profile. It’s the beginning of the video, I’m interested which one you’ll like better
Superb vid and comparison. How does the Fatboy compare to the Rockwell 6S? (Would love to see a comparison vid between Rockwell 6S & the Legendary Fatboy)
Hi, Material Science. I like the Slim a lot.:) So much so that I had to of them replated by razorplage.com. Both Slim razors look brand new and offer an awesome shave! However, I don't own a Black Beauty, so I cannot compare.
Just my two cents, but since the fatboy was actually called the 195 and they sold it for $1.95, maybe they discontinued it because production cost got too high and they couldn't afford to sell it at that price anymore??? Anyway, great review. I have mine that I ordered off ebay coming tomorrow and I can't wait to try it.
@@MarkSzorady now I'm really going down the rabbit hole. I just ordered a slim adjustable off ebay 😁 I don't want to give away my age but it was made the year I was born. I can't wait to try both the slim and the fatboy.
Ronnie, as I recall, in Goldfinger, the Slim is used to conceal a small tracking device (or some such thing). I'd have to give the film anotherview. Howe dr, I did find this: www.thejamesbonddossier.com/james-bond-films/goldfinger/the-gillette-slim-adjustable-razor-from-goldfinger.htm Product placement According to an article on the HMSS Weblog, Guy Hamilton was rather upset at Harry Saltzman showing up with a handful of Gillette’s products to place on the set. Indeed, the HMSS article reproduces a quote by Hamilton from the book Adrian Turner on Goldfinger (1998), in which he says: I used to get a little bit angry when Harry (Saltzman) used to come on the set. In the plane scene with Pussy Galore, when Bond shaves, the whole thing was a Gillette exercise. You never saw anything like it. There was Gillette foam, Gillette aftershave…I said, ‘Harry what are you doing? It’s eight in the morning, the crew haven’t arrived and you’re dressing a set?’ He’d done a deal with Gillette and we were going to get sixpence to use their stuff.” In 1961 Gillette replaced the fat Boy with the “Slim” model that featured in Goldfinger, which was manufactured until 1968 at which time it was replaced by the “Super Adjustable” model that was eventually retired in 1988 (all dates thanks to this information compiled by Badger and Brush).
It's gotta be the slim for me dare I say the fatboy is a bit heavy for my liking ? it cramps my hand on my against the grain pass it makes me not want to use it which sucks because those razors aren't exactly cheap.I'm having a but of a learning curve with it granted I've only used it three times, I because thought the heavier the razor the better the performance it's not a bad razor at all I think I could just be holding it wrong. can you recommend a way to make a shave with a fatboy a little more enjoyable ?
James, off the top of my head, I can't think of anything unique that would improve handling of the razor. i may have tot give this a bit more thought. I may also address this in a MMB so it can be shown. As I'm typing this, I'm reminded that when I do an against the grain pass, I hold the razor as I would a pen or pencil. Also, it might help to just hold the razor in your hand WITHOUT A BLADE LOADED and simply pass it over your face to understand the feel, etc. I'll give this some more thought.
Oh yes, those Gillettes adjustables, can there be any btr? Myself consider the black beauties, the end of line evolution, the best of all. But the much cheaper Schick Krona is on same level, such an easy effective tool. It might be the handle... Wow, Tabac, nice, seems I smell it thru the screen of my laptop. Great shave, Mark. Cheers fm Singapore+
Thank you Achim.:) Tabac is awesome!:) And yes, both razors are terrific.:) I'm keeping a lookout at yard sales and antique stores for both the Black Beauty and Krona.
@@MarkSzorady Guess not too difficult to find. I bought the short black beauty fm Razoremporium, the long handle fm eBay. Really, the more impressive is the Krona. Good luck in finding, its that good. Found more than lucky catch originally wrapped new for $25, delivered. They/re out there.
my fatboy on one side has a side that won't engage till setting 5,so I need to get it fixed because blade angle isn't right but still a good shave on one side but my gillette slim works fine and perfect;so till I get the fatboy fixed I turn over the blade.
Matt at Razor Emporium does a lot of refurbishing/restoration work on these. YOu may want to check out his channel and web site: www.razoremporium.com/
Ultimately it was the invention of the cartridge that killed off the slim/fatboy. But they stopped making the Fatboy in favor of the slim the slim because general feedback was pushing them to create a slimmer handle and head.
Nice video, I can tell you had a lot of fun with this one. I have question for you, do you have any problems with ARKO drying your skin out after you use it?
ThaRedPitbull-Mix sometimes I do. After I shave I feel it’s hard to get all the dry soap off near and around my ears and upper cheeks. Nothing a cold/ hot water rinse can’t fix! 💈😁✌️💈
I got used to the smell but if you want to get another low cost shave soap, go with Palmolive Shave Sticks! I have 3 in my Shave Den ATM and I love them
@@magnoliamike I've heard Mark talking about Palmolive before. I have some Stirling coming next week. I'm looking forward to it. I get the ARKO tomorrow.
RK516, I tend to lean toward the Fatboy myself...however, I only have one Fatboy while I have a few Sims. So perhaps having only one Fatboy makes it a bit more special? I like the weight and the feel of it, as well.
Ah yes, my two favorite razors of all time. Gillette hit these completely out of the park, on the first pitch. I look after a triplet of Slims and a duo of Fatboys. They still outperform every other razor in my collection, with the Heritage being an honorable mention. Cannot wait to get my hands on the new GSC Fat Guy.
Shouldn't fat-shame the Fatboy...it looks about the same width as the slim... just shorter, like a person saying they're not fat, just short for their weight. 😆
Love the comparison I have Both slim and fat boy but people say that because the fat boy was the first one that it was OK but because the slim was done after the fat boy they said that they improve so I don’t know I compare both of them I love both of them the same actually I don’t like the fat boy more than the slim or the slim more than a fat boy I like both of them he same ... if you are a die hard wet shaver I think that this has to be in your collections the slim and the fat boy you can’t be a wet shaver and not have them .. but lately I’ve been shaving with Rockwell 6c .. setting 4 .. and can’t get enough off polsilver blades
From what I hear, Rockwell's are wonderful:) I'm glad I have razors, too.:) Just really nice to have the option.:) Agree. As other wet shavers and Jim from Northfield pointed out, every wet shaver needs a Fatboy.:) Having both a Slim and Fatboy makes it all the more complete.:)
Agree, but I think my point is the Slim had a longer manufacturing run. So, probably more Slims than Fatboys. But yes, lots an lots of Fatboys put there.:)
@@bluegrassman3040 Don't give up looking. You may come across one in great shape at an affordable price. Other wet shavers have found them. Ya never know.
@@MarkSzorady I used to look often, but haven’t lately. I have a 62 Slim that was my grandfathers, plus a Merkur 15C that I mainly use for head shaving. I have a black beauty Gillette and a few others that I have just for a collection.
To answer your question of why they stopped making them: from executive-shaving co "The Fatboy and the Slim benefit from butterfly opening doors and high build quality. The build quality was so good, sales for new razors dropped off and Gillette was forced to rethink their business model in order to survive and a decision was made to focus on selling cheap, low grade razors often at a loss to entice buyers into buying multi blade Excel and later Mach3 cartridge blades."
Gillette basically gave their adjustable razors away so they could sell you their double edge blades. They then went to the much more profitable cartridge multi blades
It can't be M and be a Fatboy. They were officially run from 1958 until 1961 That is D for '58, E for '59, F for '60 and G for '61. That would be a 1967 Gillette Slim if it is adjustable, a 1967 Super Speed if not adjustable.
Mark, I'm right there with you. I have a 1964 Slim and a 1959 Fatboy. The Fatboy is a little smoother and feels just right. It has that Wow factor as you said.
Mark, when I watch people shave and the sound of the blade slicing and scrapping the hairs on the face gives me an eerie feeling.! Hahahahaha.!
You should watch recent(within the last 6 months or so) videos from Ohio Shaves. His audio is awesome. Some serious sound quality.
With all the bad news in this world it’s so nice to be able to kick back enjoy a cup coffee watching your videos . Always educational . Thank you 🙏
Thank you so much for the wonderfully kind words and compliment.:) I sincerely appreciate it.:) Made my day!:)
Great video! This past week I happened upon a Fatboy/Slim haul at my local antique store! A 1959 CASED FB in great shape With blue blades, a 1960 FB with some plate loss but shaveable and three slims : 1962, 1963 and 1964. Total damage:$60! Lucky me! Verdict is still out as ALL shave well. The bargains are out there. You just have to poke around and ask! So far the antique stores have been my best source for vintage. Thanks again for inspiring me to try out these gems Mark!
Albert, that's a great find!:) Wow!:) Congratulations!:) Very happy for you!:) Enjoy!:)
Nice find! I’m gonna look for antique stores in my area (Buffalo NY) hopefully I can find something
@@greg6162 Great! And always have fun looking. You never know what you may find. My very first vintage double edge razor was a 1930s Gillette NEW long comb that was in fantastic shape. Dissatisfied with cartridges and disposables I had been investigating wet shaving and Amazon and was about to go "all in" and plunk down a ton of $ on brand new stuff when I happened upon an antique store in 2018. Total damage: $5 for that NEW and I still use it. Great razor! I never paid more than $12 for a vintage Gillette. It took some time and patience to scout the gems. Plus it freed up $ for a cupboard full of soaps and blades! LOL! Happy hunting!
@@albertcadiz7000 Jackpot! I just found a Gillette 1947 Superspeed with the Gillette Super Blue blades dispenser and in a military issued micromatic WWI case with an American flag on the belly of an eagle for $20?! This thing is almost mint… the handle has slight discoloration if it catches the light the right way. But this razor was looked after and the guy was a WWII vet and he got everything from the estate sale from the daughter. I can’t believe how smooth the TTO action is… this is the Gen3 I believe which started production in July of 1947 to 1966. This is definitely older because Gillette didn’t start using date codes until 1951 I believe. It’s similar to the milady but a nickel finish. Very nice and worth the $20 to me for the razor, the blue blade dispenser and the WWII micromatic case. I don’t think I’ll use the blades to shave but it’s nice to have and probably the nicest looking DE blade I’ve ever seen with the dark blue tint. I just cleaned, disinfected and polished with Weiman multi purpose metal polish. This razor looks fantastic… now I’m about to shower and shave with it. Never used a vintage Gillette before and I have a E3 1959 Fatboy coming two days from now. The build quality of these vintage Gillette’s are just pure quality
@@greg6162Way to go on that great superspeed find! Thats a major bargain with razor in great shape, vintage blades and a case! I myself never tried a superspeed but I am on the lookout for a black handle SS with my birth quarter and year. As I mentioned before i too have a 1959 FatBoy. It was in very good shape and must have been lightly used. Its got a good hand feel and is a finely crafted piece of equipment. You are right about quality. Its amazing how many Vintage Gillettes are still in circulation. My first DE was vintage and I sorta got hooked on going vintage. I tried the Blue Blades once for notstalgias sake. Rough shave! I didn't get cut but they really drag. I normally shave with Astra Superior Platinums in the green label and the German-made Personnas. Anyway Greg, enjoy your new find and that 59 FB. FatBoys are a Holy Grail for a lot of us!
Hi Mark- Great Gillette Adjustable razors comparison video; thank you! This was a very nice side by side evaluation of these two razors. I believe my Fatboy just edges out the Sliim Adjustable, performance-wise for me, as well. I’m glad to have these two vintage Gillette’s in my collection. Well, I hope you have a great weekend ahead of you, Mark, and all the best!
I felt the difference immediately between the two. The Fatboy was smoother. I wouldn't throw away the Slim.:) It's a terrific razor in its own right.:) But there is just SOMETHING about the Fatboy that simply has that WOW factor.:)
Nice job. I recently got interested in the vintage aspect of shaving. This was very informative. Thanks
I've not used a slim, but I've heard many people say that a top heavy razor makes for a closer and easier shave. I imagine the Fatboy has a little heavier head based on looks. I know I love my Fatboys
Love the Fatboy. Love them both! I think the Fatboy's handle changes up the shave a bit due to it being a bit larger in diameter than a Slim's.
Great shave, yet again, Mark.
If I were a newer wet shaver living in the US, I would look at West Coast Shaving's house brand synthetic brushes. They are very beautifully made, attractive and very very competitively priced.
Hey Mark? Any chance of you doing a shave with Mitchell's Wool Fat?
Thank you.:) WCS is a very good online seller.:) I have an account and you're correct. Really nice selection of synthetic brushes.:) Some are on sale.:) Overall, great prices!:)
I did a shave with Mitchell's Wool Fat.:) Here it is: ua-cam.com/video/4dMC4vC8KCk/v-deo.html
However, I've got a new MWF puck, so perhaps I need to do an update.:)
I've found the slim is easier to fit under the nose, and the correct angle is a bit more intuitive
David, yes. The head is a bit slimmer in height allowing for this.:)
A really great comparison. Picked up the Fatguy at Global Shave. I wanted the newer version in gold.
Great comparison Mark. You were as excited as us making it as we were to watch it 😂.
Ironic timing I just ordered some aqua velva classic like this. I used to use it when I started shaving & missed it. I ordered the musk version too since I’ve never seen that in person. For $3 on Amazon why not!
amazing how ymmv applied more to the shaving world then almost anything else. I have three slims and two fat boys and depending on the blade, cream combo many times the slim is better for me. I think though that there is definitely a mental factor that the fat boy is so hyped up now that the supply and demand just makes the fat boy more desirable. love your vids and new subscriber!!
Thank you very much, germanshepherd13! Appreciate the kind words and thanks for subscribing. I think you make a very valid point. The Fatboy is more desirable for a variety of reasons. Part of the reason may be the limited number of years they were made, etc. Love my slim razors and they give great shaves, but yeah, the hype around the Fatboy boosts its mystique. :)
@@MarkSzorady hi.thats what got me wanting a fatboy the mystique lol. Slim's are great too like you said. I love all the vintage razors. Get great shaves even with the common cheap ones. Keep up the great vids Jeff
@@germanshepherd13 Thanks.:) Amazing that 60-year-old razors (and older) are still giving great shaves.:) Thanks for the kind words.:)
Also i read it was so popular that gillette sales were down so started selling razors you needed to buy their head for mach3 type etc
When I shave in the morning the lather is nice and warm but when I go to do a 2nd or even a 3rd pass I always have to re-lather my brush each time in hot water because by the time I'm ready to re-lather the soap is cold and cold lather doesn't give me a nice close comfortable shave, so what can I do to keep the lather constantly warm and I use an apothecary shaving mug as l don't have a scuttle (as l understand they can keep the lather warm throughout the whole shave).
Anthony, you may want to try the travel scuttle from, PAA. Lightweight and made form Polypropylene, it retains heat well.
From the product page:
"Also, just like ceramic, polypropylene is known for its miraculous ability to hold and maintain heat...and for that reason, it is the #1 fiber used today in insulated underwear...which you just might be wearing right now...creepy, no? but I digress..."
Also from the product page:
"But Why Microwave Safe Doug?
"Good question. This again is for the sake of time and convenience. I have noticed that most hotels, motels and even hostels with their shared kitchen areas have microwaves. 1 minute in the microwave and you are ready to shave! Heck, if there's no Mic around, you can always use the coffee maker in the room to boil water!
"Use Boiling Water? I thought that was a no, no Doug?
"Well, historically this is. If you have ever used boiling water in a ceramic scuttle you will see very fast that it can fry the foam and really kill any hope of getting a good lather...But with the Crown King Travel Scuttle, it's a little different in that regard.
"The polypropylene works like a buffer and shields the lather from the effects of the boiling water. It just behaves differently than traditional ceramic and tends to rewrite this old rule.
"I personally don't use boiling water but it's nice to know that if I need to, I can. 1 minute in the mic or the tap at its hottest works fine most of the time!"
So, you may want to give this scuttle a look. The Intergalactic Indestructible Shatterproof Travel Scuttle by Phoenix Shaving: bit.ly/2NnAMhG
(Affiliate Link)
Great video. I have a J1 Slim from 1964. Had it for years and it's a great shave. I would love to get a Fatboy.
I found what I believe is these exact two razors at an Antique mall for $15. There's some surface blemishes, but other than that, I am very happy with my purchase!
Wow! Wonderful! I know this is a late reply, but do you still have and use them?
@MarkSzorady yep, I still use the slim! It has replaced my Henson razor. It won't go to waste though, my Nephew will be shaving age soon.
Great comparison, thank you!
DavidV, my plaeasure.
I know this vid is 3 yrs old , but just to say the fatboy was my very first razor in the sixties.
Dont know what happened to it, as i setup house with my wife.
Years later, and getting more serious about wet shaving i picked up a replated fatboy on ebay in beutiful condition.
Brings back memories every time i use it.
It has a G 2 mark underneath which tells me it was made in 1961 in the first quarter.
Still gives me a bbs everytime.
Steve, thanks for taking the time to leave a comment and view the video. So very glad you were ablet to get a wonderful Fatboy to replace the one that was misplaced.:) They are awesome razors. Plus, the connection to a wonderful memory just by simply using a favorite/special razor makes the traditional wet shave all the more worthwhile.:)
try a few drops of mineral oil to keep your razor from locking up
Thanks.:) One viewer suggested that it might simply be a matter of glue on the blade. I'm going to try a few other blades.:)
Such a nice gift from your friend! And another great video, love comparison video reviews, they are fun!🙌💜🌈💜
Thank you, Boo.:)
How much was the replating? I just scored an eBay e1 fatboy in moderately good condition but needs cleaned and plated. 42.00 eBay auction score. Razor emporium is 70 which I know is worth it but just curious.
Great shave. I’ve been a wet shaver for over 10 years. I have some nice razors including a Rex Ambassador and Rockwell T2 and really enjoy adjustables. I just picked up my first vintage razor off ebay, a near mint Gilette Slim from 1968. I can’t wait. I still haven’t tried Tabac, but it’s on my list.
I couldnt be assed to spend the money on the t2 or ambassador so I ended up buying a slim adjustable and I love it!
I like the profile of the Slim it gets under the nose easier, cant go wrong with either. They certainly dont make them like they used too thats for sure.
Mark, now I am scared of shaving my mustache with my Gillette Fusion 5 power razor and also with my Gillette Gold Executive Adjustable DE Razor. So I trim my mustache with a pair of scissors everytime I shave. I have oily skin that's why I look much younger than my age though I am over 72 years old.! I shave every alternate day. Thankyou.
New comparison with these two razors would be worth doing. Do without changing face sides for each razor. One of the razors for left side and the other razor for right-side. (I just saw the MMMB for aug. 28, 2023 in which you mentioned outer differences of the razors).
Love Tabac.
Agree.:)
Awesome video. Thank you
Hi Mark. Three cheers for the Fatso but ya gotta give an honorable mention to the slim twist. Both did a good job. Thank you.😀
thank yo, Brian. Love both, but that Fatboy is really something special.:)
Had to come back to this video. I had a problem with the slim and Silver Blue also. No others so far.
Really? These work pretty good for me.:)
They work great but I had the same problem with the doors sticking a bit. I thought “I’ve seen this happen before with this blade!” 😁 It’s the only blade that makes the doors stick. Great blade though!
@@jmarcguy Yes. It happens. Not a dealbreaker, though.:)
Tabac makes a beautiful lather, and the Slim and fat boy are both great shavers:) Mark could it be the glue on the Silver Blue blades that is causing the sticking?
It could be the glue, yes. Good point. Just seems like such an ironic coincidence.:) I'll try a variety of blades and see what happens.:)
Mark Szorady I have the same blades and recognize they use more glue than other blades, I like how they package these but still prefer the Gillette Platinum blades.
@@Shaverboy516 I'll take a closer look next time I load the blade in one of the razors.:) Thanks.:)
Great shave, Mark. I have my Dad's Fat Boy E-4 and my Slim K-1 (1st razor I ever bought when 16). I shave with them fairly regularly but have never done a comparison shave, I will now have to do that!! From what I remember my Fat Boy is just a tad more aggressive than my Slim.
I have another Fat Boy I bought years ago and am thinking of having it Rhodium plated.
Claude Johns that’s going to look great bro! 💈😁👍💈
Claude, oh man!:) Beautiful to hear this! How special is that? To have your dad's Fatboy!:) Wonderful!:) and the fact that you still have YOUR slim.:) Really awesome!:) Wise move to have the spare Fatboy re-plated. :)
I bought one on eBay for $60… it looks amazing in the pictures and I looked at a bunch. Listed as *Excellent condition, fully functional* so I’m hoping it’s mechanically sound. I have QD thinking of the rhodium plated too from razor emporium. Do you have a video of how your razor turned out?
I've got a slim coming in the mail in a few days. fatboy pricing is a bit ridiculous at this point. the slim will be close enough, for what i spent (ebay).
Yes, as the Traditional Wet Shave continues to gain popularity, pricing on these vintage razors will continue to rise. Glad you got a Slim. Terrific razor.:) Enjoy!
Another great video Mark, really would like to find a fatboy or slim in mint condition for a reasonable price, unfortunately they are not that easy to find here in Europe (Belgium) not to mention the crazy price tag some put on it so if you happen to know someone who sells them please let me know
Good deals are out there. I just got a ‘59 Fatboy in mint condition in a box for $60 USD, and a ‘64 Slim in mint condition in the box for $65 USD.
Cant you showe mee hoawe to adjustable the setings, do i hawe to open the head ewery time when i m wont to change the setings
Yes, it's best to unlock the razor, loosen the doors, then adjust. Then, close doors, lock.:)
@@MarkSzorady thanks
Now this is my kinda video!!!
Love Gillette Adjustables and Adjustable Safety Razors in general!
💈😁✌️💈
That’s funny my Slim and FatBoy are also J-4 1964 and E-3 1959
And yesterday my 100 pack of Gillette Silver Blue’s arrived from eBay . I’ve been traditional wishing for over a year and this is only my second hundred pack I bought. This past November I bought a 100 pack of Nacets
Let me know if the Silver blues jam in the slim or Fatboy. One viewer suggested it might be the glue.
Mark Szorady no it never happened to me. But it did happen to me with a blade with out glue lol. I think if you open it to first or too slow the blade falls down and gets stuck. Could be the doors to like you’re lazy door on your specific razor
@@magnoliamike I dunno.:) It was weird:) In all th time I've had this slim, it never happened before.:)
Mark Szorady yeah that happened to one of my Gillette Adjustables b4. Just open it slow cause Doing it too fast could cause it to get stuck
Never seen that jamming..... yet my last 3 buys came so filthy and with a rusted blade....i just exposed them to boiling water with dawn and repeated x 4 before I opened them. Then the Cleaning bubbles deal and then ultrasonic cleaner that shook out a LOT of dirt. Repeated steps 1,2 then put some drops of mineral oil down the center. Finished w alcohol 90% for 5min. I prefer the Fat....and the most aggressive is the 109. Cheers , nice video.... BTW I had some slide showing the blade gaps.... bigger in the thin. Fat is a must
Thanks for the tips.:) I may follow up on this.:) I'm going to try some other blades and see if it persists. As others have suggested, could just be glue on the blade.:)
@@MarkSzorady It is amazing the amount of gunk that is stuck inside the handle....after soaking w hot water+soap x 3 I put it head down in the ultrasonic cleaner and a lot more filthy stuff came out.....
@@talega1 Very cool thought that you can give these vintage razora a thorough cleaning and a new life for wet shaving!:)
Hi Mark, how would you compare the fatboy with meiji? I have the meiji and was thinking about getting a fatboy.
Hi, loriolus. I need to do a side by side comparison video.:) Thanks for reminding me.:) I think both are smooth, but the Fatboy seems to have a bit more milder edge to it. However, I don't use the Fatboy at higher settings. Also, it could just be that there is less blade exposure at setting 5 on the Fatboy when compared to setting 5 on the Meiji (as an example). When it comes to weight, the Meiji is a beast. The Fatboy have nice weight but not much greater than that of the Slim. The feel of the Meiji is substantial. The Fatboy is good, but the Meiji has so much more. I like the fact that the Fatboy requires an extra quarter turn to lock things in place. However it only clicks in place when adjsuting. So, there's no 5.5 setting on the Fatboy. Whereas, the Meiji has smooth and continuous adjustment.
@@MarkSzorady Thanks, I did have an impression that the fatboy is somewhat milder.
Nice comparison… I thought you only used Vikings razors? I just bought my first vintage Gillette… an E3 1959 Fatboy listed as *Excellent condition, fully functional* for $60 shipped. Hopefully, it’s mechanically sound. I didn’t know that the Gillette slim had a slimmer t-bar profile. It’s the beginning of the video, I’m interested which one you’ll like better
Nice comparison video. I don't own a Slim but i do have a Fatboy. Pretty crazy the Slim locked up. Never seen that happen before. Loll.
Yeah, again, a viewer has a good idea that it could simply be the glue on the blade.
Superb vid and comparison. How does the Fatboy compare to the Rockwell 6S?
(Would love to see a comparison vid between Rockwell 6S & the Legendary Fatboy)
Thanks, Blue Gear.:) A great suggestion.:) Just a matter of finding which 6S plate compares accurately to which setting on the Fatboy.:)
Thanks for comparing those two nice razors. Do you know where to buy them? 😊✌️
I have listed a few on ebay and if you are interested let me know Mario.
@@dejavu1754 Yes, I would like to
Do u like the slim or 84 black beauty, I heard the latter's handle feels lighter even though they r essentially the same weight?
Hi, Material Science. I like the Slim a lot.:) So much so that I had to of them replated by razorplage.com. Both Slim razors look brand new and offer an awesome shave! However, I don't own a Black Beauty, so I cannot compare.
Just my two cents, but since the fatboy was actually called the 195 and they sold it for $1.95, maybe they discontinued it because production cost got too high and they couldn't afford to sell it at that price anymore???
Anyway, great review. I have mine that I ordered off ebay coming tomorrow and I can't wait to try it.
Ivan, a Fatboy o nthe way? Congratulations! Enjoy! Perhaps it was called the 195 due to price. Makes sense. I'd like to put this out to viewers.
@@MarkSzorady now I'm really going down the rabbit hole. I just ordered a slim adjustable off ebay 😁
I don't want to give away my age but it was made the year I was born. I can't wait to try both the slim and the fatboy.
@@IvanKaz1 Enjoy!
Gillette likes to make new razors to rinse more money out of people
Lol loves the nose jab at yourself. All about being comfortable in your own skin!
😀😄
Positive man👍😀. Good luck
I wanted the slim after finding out of james bond site stuff he used a slim on goldfinger, but now not sure,subscibed Ron Newcastle uk
Ronnie, as I recall, in Goldfinger, the Slim is used to conceal a small tracking device (or some such thing). I'd have to give the film anotherview. Howe dr, I did find this:
www.thejamesbonddossier.com/james-bond-films/goldfinger/the-gillette-slim-adjustable-razor-from-goldfinger.htm
Product placement
According to an article on the HMSS Weblog, Guy Hamilton was rather upset at Harry Saltzman showing up with a handful of Gillette’s products to place on the set. Indeed, the HMSS article reproduces a quote by Hamilton from the book Adrian Turner on Goldfinger (1998), in which he says:
I used to get a little bit angry when Harry (Saltzman) used to come on the set. In the plane scene with Pussy Galore, when Bond shaves, the whole thing was a Gillette exercise. You never saw anything like it. There was Gillette foam, Gillette aftershave…I said, ‘Harry what are you doing? It’s eight in the morning, the crew haven’t arrived and you’re dressing a set?’ He’d done a deal with Gillette and we were going to get sixpence to use their stuff.”
In 1961 Gillette replaced the fat Boy with the “Slim” model that featured in Goldfinger, which was manufactured until 1968 at which time it was replaced by the “Super Adjustable” model that was eventually retired in 1988 (all dates thanks to this information compiled by Badger and Brush).
FIRST! Great video man and goodmorning!
Thank you!:)
It's gotta be the slim for me dare I say the fatboy is a bit heavy for my liking ? it cramps my hand on my against the grain pass it makes me not want to use it which sucks because those razors aren't exactly cheap.I'm having a but of a learning curve with it granted I've only used it three times, I because thought the heavier the razor the better the performance it's not a bad razor at all I think I could just be holding it wrong. can you recommend a way to make a shave with a fatboy a little more enjoyable ?
James, off the top of my head, I can't think of anything unique that would improve handling of the razor. i may have tot give this a bit more thought. I may also address this in a MMB so it can be shown. As I'm typing this, I'm reminded that when I do an against the grain pass, I hold the razor as I would a pen or pencil. Also, it might help to just hold the razor in your hand WITHOUT A BLADE LOADED and simply pass it over your face to understand the feel, etc. I'll give this some more thought.
@@MarkSzorady that's actually a really great idea. thanks Mark this is much appreciated I hope you are having a wonderful day.
@@jamesallen7656 My pleasure.:)
I use a slim on my head
Oh yes, those Gillettes adjustables, can there be any btr? Myself consider the black beauties, the end of line evolution, the best of all. But the much cheaper Schick Krona is on same level, such an easy effective tool. It might be the handle... Wow, Tabac, nice, seems I smell it thru the screen of my laptop. Great shave, Mark. Cheers fm Singapore+
Thank you Achim.:) Tabac is awesome!:) And yes, both razors are terrific.:) I'm keeping a lookout at yard sales and antique stores for both the Black Beauty and Krona.
@@MarkSzorady Guess not too difficult to find. I bought the short black beauty fm Razoremporium, the long handle fm eBay. Really, the more impressive is the Krona. Good luck in finding, its that good. Found more than lucky catch originally wrapped new for $25, delivered. They/re out there.
@@achimkohlhage1328 Thanks for the leads and pricing.:) Good starting point.:)
What are you shaving, your skin looks smooth ? you're lucky you don't have my steel wire coarse dark beard.
Hi, JTO o. Yes, I'm fair=skinned so my beard is light in color. But, it is very much their, I assure you.
my fatboy on one side has a side that won't engage till setting 5,so I need to get it fixed because blade angle isn't right but still a good shave on one side but my gillette slim works fine and perfect;so till I get the fatboy fixed I turn over the blade.
Matt at Razor Emporium does a lot of refurbishing/restoration work on these. YOu may want to check out his channel and web site: www.razoremporium.com/
Could have been the glue on the blade holding the doors down
Yes. I'll have to take a close look at the video again.:)
Ultimately it was the invention of the cartridge that killed off the slim/fatboy. But they stopped making the Fatboy in favor of the slim the slim because general feedback was pushing them to create a slimmer handle and head.
Nice video, I can tell you had a lot of fun with this one. I have question for you, do you have any problems with ARKO drying your skin out after you use it?
ThaRedPitbull-Mix sometimes I do. After I shave I feel it’s hard to get all the dry soap off near and around my ears and upper cheeks. Nothing a cold/ hot water rinse can’t fix!
💈😁✌️💈
@@magnoliamike Thanks the reply. The soap drying out skin and the smell are the only downsides I've read about ARKO so far.
I got used to the smell but if you want to get another low cost shave soap, go with Palmolive Shave Sticks! I have 3 in my Shave Den ATM and I love them
@@magnoliamike I've heard Mark talking about Palmolive before. I have some Stirling coming next week. I'm looking forward to it. I get the ARKO tomorrow.
Both are great shaves but there is something about my Fat Boy that’s special.
video hay good
While I do like my slim, I love the fatboy way better, the blade geometry is better for me and I like that it’s heavier.
RK516, I tend to lean toward the Fatboy myself...however, I only have one Fatboy while I have a few Sims. So perhaps having only one Fatboy makes it a bit more special? I like the weight and the feel of it, as well.
@@MarkSzorady I’m still trying to figure which blades work the best with them, so far I’m liking Gillette platinum blades, I’ll try other blades too.
Ironically the fat boys would probably like the slim better since it gets in the nooks and crannies
Ah yes, my two favorite razors of all time. Gillette hit these completely out of the park, on the first pitch. I look after a triplet of Slims and a duo of Fatboys. They still outperform every other razor in my collection, with the Heritage being an honorable mention. Cannot wait to get my hands on the new GSC Fat Guy.
Pat, I have all three you mentioned.:) I can tell you that I'm quite pleased with the Fatguy.:)
The fat boy is the best razor ever imo
Shouldn't fat-shame the Fatboy...it looks about the same width as the slim... just shorter, like a person saying they're not fat, just short for their weight. 😆
Hi, Nakadu.:0 Point taken.:) LOL!:):)
Love the comparison I have Both slim and fat boy but people say that because the fat boy was the first one that it was OK but because the slim was done after the fat boy they said that they improve so I don’t know I compare both of them I love both of them the same actually I don’t like the fat boy more than the slim or the slim more than a fat boy I like both of them he same ... if you are a die hard wet shaver I think that this has to be in your collections the slim and the fat boy you can’t be a wet shaver and not have them .. but lately I’ve been shaving with Rockwell 6c .. setting 4 .. and can’t get enough off polsilver blades
From what I hear, Rockwell's are wonderful:) I'm glad I have razors, too.:) Just really nice to have the option.:) Agree. As other wet shavers and Jim from Northfield pointed out, every wet shaver needs a Fatboy.:) Having both a Slim and Fatboy makes it all the more complete.:)
Love both of mine, but Fat Boy just nudges out the Slim.
Agree. But the Fatboy really is a special razor.:)
They made millions of the fat boy. Not scarce or hard to find. Probably the most plentiful vintage razor.
Agree, but I think my point is the Slim had a longer manufacturing run. So, probably more Slims than Fatboys. But yes, lots an lots of Fatboys put there.:)
I wanted to buy a Fat Boy razor but all the ones I’ve seen online are to pricey for me.
@@bluegrassman3040 Don't give up looking. You may come across one in great shape at an affordable price. Other wet shavers have found them. Ya never know.
@@MarkSzorady I used to look often, but haven’t lately. I have a 62 Slim that was my grandfathers, plus a Merkur 15C that I mainly use for head shaving. I have a black beauty Gillette and a few others that I have just for a collection.
@@bluegrassman3040 Wonderful that you have your grandfathers' slim! Awesome! Treasure that.:)
Slim is better
To answer your question of why they stopped making them: from executive-shaving co
"The Fatboy and the Slim benefit from butterfly opening doors and high build quality. The build quality was so good, sales for new razors dropped off and Gillette was forced to rethink their business model in order to survive and a decision was made to focus on selling cheap, low grade razors often at a loss to entice buyers into buying multi blade Excel and later Mach3 cartridge blades."
Sounds like planned obsolescence.
@@MarkSzorady bingo!
Gillette basically gave their adjustable razors away so they could sell you their double edge blades. They then went to the much more profitable cartridge multi blades
@Mark Szorady i have gillette fatboy серия M 2.what does the M2 series mean
It can't be M and be a Fatboy. They were officially run from 1958 until 1961 That is D for '58, E for '59, F for '60 and G for '61. That would be a 1967 Gillette Slim if it is adjustable, a 1967 Super Speed if not adjustable.