Philips Arcitec RQ1085/22

Having been invited to test the new Philips Arcitec razor by Alain of “Maître Barbier” (Master Barber), here is my opinion after two weeks of use.

First of all, it must be noted that this is the first time that I have used an electric razor. A bit of a paradox for a technophile? Certainly, but the charm of old-fashioned shaving has always ruled over the temptation of technology… until today.

Let’s just say that this razor is something special, with its superb design, matte black plastic and brushed aluminium finish, smooth texture and gleaming glass LED screen… it is so much more than just a razor!

The remaining charging time (65 minutes maximum, let’s hope that it doesn’t take that long…), as well as some useful maintenance information is displayed on this screen, which is very easy to read.

The three moving heads are mounted on a flexible support that should make it easier to shave tricky areas such as the neck.

As well as the razor, there is the fairly imposing Jet Clean stand. You just have to plug in the razor, and it will be cleaned, recharged and dried all at the same time.

You also get a travel charging-box that looks like a futuristic sarcophagus, as well as a small cleaning brush.

Having first rubbed a damp alum stone over the skin and then brushed the face with talcum powder, the rest of the shaving process was hassle free, first with the shaving heads and then with the retractable precision trimmer, which is discretely hidden and operated at the press of a single button. Shaving time… 35 minutes the first day, then 20 minutes the third and finally 13 minutes the last time…

This razor provides a very pleasing shaving experience, albeit one that requires a little practice, and the results are excellent, but still not as good as those of a traditional razor… to be continued!