About Merkur Razors

Founded in 1896 by Emil Hermes, the company was intended to name Hermes after the Greek God but since there were already another cutlery company by that name; it was then named ‘Merkur’ after the Roman equivalent of Hermes. Merkur represents the Roman God ‘Mercury’ on its packaging as well. The first razors for wet shaving already featured a safety comb, into which you clipped a removable wedge-shaped blade. Shortened to 4cm, it was similar in form to a classic straight razor blade. However, it needed to be regularly sharpened. The early models such as 3pc open comb, the gold textured were then introduced. At the beginning of 20th century, production began on very sharp, double edge razor blades, like those produced today. They reduced the risk of injury and when they were blunt, they were cheaper to replace. The sons Eric and Hans joined the company in the late 1920’s. A team photo in the packing room with Eric Hermes and Hans Hermes. During this period, Merkur launched the progress model which was available in a short (3inch) and (4inch) handle with a very wide adjustment range. It was a 2pc razor with adjustment setting at the bottom of the handle. Also the detailing safety razor was introduced here. It was specially designed for hard-to-reach places mainly used for touch-ups and trimming. It had a knurled handle that helped with better grip. Over the years Merkur patented several times of its models.Read their story