Shake Sharp Double Edge Razor from 1940s

When I first saw this thing, I had to have it. With the bakelite handle and gold plated accents, the styling is just cool. I expected it to be from the 20s or 30s from the Art Deco/Buck Rogers design. I also expected it to use either a GEM style blade or a custom blade. However, I was amazed to learn (from the Waits Compendium), that it uses a Gillette style double edge blade! Also, the patents are from 1943 and 1944. 

The blade shown in the photos is for illustration and demonstration purposes. It is not included. You can purchase Gillette style blades from a variety of sources and brands. The razor features a built in metal hone that operates by shaking it back and forth. We have a shot showing the hone in the extended position. 

While overall in excellent condition, you can see the clear coat or gold plating on the top cover has some issues. Something more than our standard "light clean and sterilize" process would likely improve it a lot. 

Very unusual razor to use to collect.