(07-30-2021, 09:51 PM)ALI Wrote: Is this artisan really charging a premium for a “master series” razor that only he touches? What does this imply about the quality if his other razors. I have heard two reports if quality control issues in the past.
Fair question. I dont think it is a premium, really. The 2020S was $690ish with no stand and I think some came without the presentation case. The 2021 was $490ish without a stand but included a case. (My recollection, I could be wrong on some fine points)
The MC is $690 with a stand and case. It also appears to be better finished. Price seems in-line to me, I guess.
As to QC, I am sure there have been issues. I know of a few myself. It doesn't stop me from buying. Returning a dud to Turkey is a let down but I would imagine refunds/exchanges were offered. QC issues would/should definitely be a consideration. Buying from Bullgoose in a dud situation would make it much more palatable to the buyer.
I think you run the risk with QC issues no matter who the maker is. Thrown in the complexity of an adjustable design and I bet it goes up a bit too.
Mistakes are made, inevitably. The response is the important part to me.
I think some minor QC issues, in certain instances, adds to the character, albeit rarely the case. For instance, my 2021 Prototype has a GLARING cosmetic issue. The grind on the top cap is askew. You gotta look hard to see it but it is there. I accepted the flaw, it is a Prototype tho. I would probably accept it in a production model of 200 pieces too.
Heck, the Janus was only a run of 50 only handled by the "master " and it was a disaster. My humble opinion.
If the MC comes in jacked up, I might be pissed. I will be professional and let the return/repair process work, but I likely wouldn't accept it. Then again, there is that character thing.
These are just cosmetic issues tho. Mechanical issues gets into a whole new discussion.
As with any major purchase, do your due diligence, weigh the risks/rewards, and proceed accordingly. Only you can decide how much risk you are willing to take.