Early this year, just after we decided to do a collaboration with Harry's, the quirky startup taking on the shaving industry, the 9-month-old company did something rather stunning — they bought a 93-year-old razor factory in Germany for $100 million. Overnight, Harry's became the only company that can take in raw steel, and about a week later, deliver a finished razor to your doorstep. Gillette and Schick weren't laughing at the new kid on the block any longer.
Located in Eisfeld, on the old East-West Germany border, and about an hour north of Nuremberg, Harry's Feintechnik factory employs over 400 people. It operates 24 hours per day, 7 days a week, on a 3-shift schedule. So it's no surprise the factory produces over 1.2 billion blades every year. The day we visited, the entire factory had switched over to making the all-black Uncrate cartridges. The surprisingly secretive setup is a balanced mix of futuristic technology and old-world tools and know-how.
Whenever you start with grinding raw steel, your manufacturing process isn't going to be an easy one. It involves an endless list of steps, requires everyone from engineers to floor workers, and includes stations for everything from microscopes to packaging. The great thing about all of it is that Harry's is committed to delivering a high-quality shaving line at a great price. They're not looking for ways to add a lubricating, vibrating, spinning sprocket to their razors.
Above are select shots from our trip to Harry's Feintechnik factory, featuring our all-black blade cartridges. Our thanks to the team working on that hot day. They were friendly and helpful. Even with a looming USA vs. Germany World Cup match.
We like products with names that describe what they are, and indeed, Jar Pies are exactly what they say on the tin — delicious single-serving pies inside jars. Available varieties include Pecan, Monkey Madness, Lemon Lust, Flea Nut (Fudgey Brownie topped with Peanut Butter sauce), Hot Fudge Toffee Crunch, and, of course, Apple. They even come complete with a spoon, so you'll be all set to chow down as soon as you open the jar.
Spend your summer in style aboard the Alen 55 Yacht. Boasting a full composite body with an Airex core, this luxury boat is powered by a pair of 800hp Volvo engines, enough power to give it a cruising speed of 30 knots and a top speed of 35. On board, you'll find a walk-around deck and deep bulwarks, an extending table that can seat up to 8, an open kitchen, a hidden, custom-made anchor mechanism, an aft sunbed, a hydraulic gangway, and an interior that can be customized to your requirements, including a large lounge area or a roomy master bedroom — but no matter what, you'll find details like teak flooring, leather wall panels, and lacquered surfaces that give it a warm feeling even if you're in cold waters.
Yes, we know — the name sounds like a camcorder for kids. But while the Viddy DIY Pinhole Camera does take pictures, they're not of the moving variety. Assembly takes as little as 30 minutes and requires only stickers, split pins, and a small drop of glue, while the body is made from durable recycled cardboard and is screenprinted and die-cut by hand in the UK. Features include a precision, laser-cut pinhole, a red light-proof window, the ability to work with both 35mm and medium format film, and a companion app that will let you know how long you need to hold the shutter for a great exposure.
