Expert’s tips for a DIY classic wet shave, and where in Hong Kong to buy the tools

SCW Cutlery & Hardware has been at the same location in Wan Chai since 1949, when founder Chan Fat-yuen came with his family from Shanghai, where he had a business distributing hair clippers.

They offer products unavailable elsewhere in Hong Kong, such as specialised pineapple knives, folding straight razors, high-quality fabric scissors, Chinese knives, Japanese knives, cufflinks and Swiss army knives. There are also various rare Damascus steel blades, which are made by forging together layers of steel and iron, the resulting blades being extremely hard-wearing and sharp.

The family takes pride in having been in the same location for 66 years, and over the decades has accumulated an in-depth knowledge of cutting implements.

A mixed clientele of locals and expatriates are attracted to the store, especially for the razor blades, which are popular among Western customers.

“Using a straight razor gives you a deeper shave,” says Rocky Sin, director at SCW Cutlery & Hardware and husband to Chan’s granddaughter. “It’s more hygienic than using disposable blades. And if you have a very thick or long board, due to the length and depth of the blade it is far more efficient.”

Prices range from HK$158 for a basic replaceable Japanese foldable blade to HK$3,000-HK$4,000 for those with more exotic metals and handles.