Thread: Hitting the sweet spot, and a barber story

Last night, I stropped the razor on the herringbone linen and horsehide, pre-treated with a concoction I got quite a while ago from our local barber (1 gallon jug), lathered up with Fitjars Miklagard and started shaving. One of the most satisfying shaves yet. Did WTG and ATG, and nice and close, and very comfortable. I find I really look forward to shaving each day now. I usually shave at night, as there is more time, and I'm awake

The barber concoction is interesting - I went about a 2 years ago to the local shop in Bronxville, NY, and asked for a straight shave. The guy is pretty old, and runs the barbershop with his son, who isn't too young, either. He was really excited, since it had been a LONG while since anyone asked for one. While he was getting his gear, his son told me I made his dad's day. Anyway, got the full treatment, and his pre-shave stuff was something that he makes up according to his own recipe. Not sure what is in it, but also makes a great hair conditioner after shampooing. I wish I had noticed if he used a shavette or a real straight, but it was great and he did three passes, if I remember correctly, with hot towel in between each, along with a great facial massage. Cost $40 not including the concoction ( I think it was another $40, and after two years, the stuff is still good), but well worth it! I'll have to go again, hope he is still active..I'm afraid he is one of a dying breed of barbers..

What shop in Bronxville?

Towers Barber Shop
113 Pondfield Road, Bronxville, NY
(914) 337-5495 ‎

Haven't been to that part of the village lately, hope it's still there...

Are you near Bronxville?

I'm in Jersey City, but I work in midtown and my GF lives in the Bronx so I am there quite a bit

Those types of barbers have been a dieing breed for about 50 years. It's sad, Ever since schick and gillette started waring on who can put more blades on their use one time gold mine. I read it used to be the mark of a gentlemen to let an experienced barber give you a shave.

Yep, I think some of it also had to do with health and hygiene standards. But, with any luck fellahs, we're gonna bring it back. I seem to recall a youtube video with a certain honemiester/SRP founder/guru giving someone a shave....

I had a free shave at Caswell Massey once - really looked forward to it, and the barber used a multi blade! Disappointed! An ok shave but not like the barber in Bronxville. Get the real thing while you can!

What made me think oh what the hell, was when I started seeing "replaceable blade straight razors".

I live fairly close by also and would love to get a shave. I'll get up there soon!