Valet Auto-Strop Razor and original blades in metal promotional case

This great old safety razor is a Valet Auto-Strop. The razor comes in a metal Valet Auto-Strop case that is marked St. Louis Times on the outside. This may have been a promotional item given with perhaps a subscription to the newspaper. The St. Louis Times was founded in 1907 and continued until 1932 when it was bought out by the St. Louis Star, thus providing a window of dates for this item.


The textured handle and head fit together nicely. The Auto Strop razor was unique in that it had an adjustable head angle made possible by the gears in the head. There is a blade in the head. The head is marked Patented April 9, 1912 Other patents pending. This fits nicely with years of publication of The St. Louis Times. The razor has been used but is in very good condition without rust. The blades were unique in that they were able to be stropped for use over and over rather than disposing of them __Thus the name Auto-Strop.

The hinged metal case is lined with velvet with compartments for the razor's handle and head. There is also a brass razor blade holder. The blade holder is brass with a tailored geometric pattern perfect for the genteel male. The blade holder has 8 blades in it, 2 of which are still in their original sealed envelopes. The other 6 appear to have seen use, but are in very good condition and are not rusty.

The case is a sleek 3 3/4 inches by 1 5/8 inches by 3/4 inches tall. When assembled, the razor measures 3 3/4 inches long.