AutoStrop WW1 Leather Military Style Kit - Now?

[rocketman]

I recently picked up this Auto Strop razor. I haven't seen one of these black leather 1918 style of case before. I am not sure if I should try and treat the leather up or leave it as is. You can get a good sense of the condition of the leather from the photos. What think ye?

www.auctiva.com/hostedimages/showimage.aspx?gid=328030&ppid=1122&image=500304889&images=500304831,500304889,500304971,500305059,500305125,500305192&formats=0,0,0,0,0,0&format=0

[wchnu]

Nice kit there. I would say leave ut as is unless you want to actually use it for a travel kit. Either way good catch.

Fuzzy

[Alan]

Wow, what a find!
I've used leather conditioner on a lot of old ammo pouches and rifle slings from the same era. It has worked for me providing the article wasn't so dried out that it was falling apart in my hands. If your razor case is at that point I'd just leave it.

Alan

[rocketman]

I have to wait for Canada Post to complete their job, er, jobs, and get it to the house. But I am torn - and with the fify fifty split decision on leave it as is versus recondition and freshen - I will need to sort it once it gets here.

I do like the idea of conditioning the leather - but it seems to be untouched and that has to be worth something. It feels more original that way. I would then be the FIRST to sully the original razor kit. Its 90 years old so a few generations of kids have managed to keep their mitts off of it. Am I 'the one' for this razor? Are we destined to meet and then end with me violating the poor thang??? lol!! ;D

Or, should I think that such an item would expect some sort of maintenance to survive, eh?? If I had a fourth or fifth off the line Model T car I imagine I would need to oil the beast or somethin!!

So - do I look at it like cleaning and maintenance - I'd oil a wood item and in fact have used light oils on Wilkinson Empire model SE 1930's wooden box exteriors and the blade vaults as well. Is it the same as oiling/conditioning this thing??

[Possum]

I would recondition the leather if it is not in too bad of shape. By doing that it will keep it in better shape for the person who gets it after you. It maybe just fine the way it is and not need any conditioner. The decision is up to you.