Thanks Mike. The article gives some answers. I've not really paid attention too closely to the origin story of the BBS-1.
"John introduced the world of classic wet shaving to James by sending him a brush, soap and two safety razors to try. James enjoyed using them and began the process of making a razor to be sold for John. After about two months of research and development he made a prototype for his own use. He continued to make adjustments for the next three months or so and was able to send John four units which were tested and then sold. John named the razor the BBS-1 and quickly asked James to produce more. James and John continued to collaborate and a few months later came up with the final design of the BBS-1."
Sounds like John said build me a razor but James actually came up with the design - and then they refined the final razor together. I know the first ones sold had a different handle (second from right I think).
"John introduced the world of classic wet shaving to James by sending him a brush, soap and two safety razors to try. James enjoyed using them and began the process of making a razor to be sold for John. After about two months of research and development he made a prototype for his own use. He continued to make adjustments for the next three months or so and was able to send John four units which were tested and then sold. John named the razor the BBS-1 and quickly asked James to produce more. James and John continued to collaborate and a few months later came up with the final design of the BBS-1."
Sounds like John said build me a razor but James actually came up with the design - and then they refined the final razor together. I know the first ones sold had a different handle (second from right I think).