I heart you, Braun 6550 Electric Shaver
This is not my first electric shaver. My dad gave me my first electric shaver when i was maybe 15 or so. I pretty much don’t grow facial hair, or hair in general. I remember getting my first electric shaver for Christmas. It came in this black case: when the case was opened, the left compartment held the coiled recharging cord, the other side held the black shaver. There was also a small mirror shoved in a slit of a compartment in the case, as well as a small flat brush. I still have that first shaver; it doesn’t work anymore, stopped working about 11 years ago. I kept it, because…honestly? Because my dad gave it to me, and my dad can no longer give me things. It is kind of illogical, to keep something that doesn’t function. Even more illogical since my dad has given me so many other things during the times he was still around…but I keep this non-functioning shaver.
When that shaver stopped working, I decided to buy one of my own. At the time, it felt like some weird right of passage: buying my own electric shaver. Wtf…I’m so weird. I loved the Braun designs (this was even before I studied about the history of Braun design). I remember seeing a similar model to the 6550 in a store. It was all black. There was something about it that I didn’t like when I held it. Then I saw this one. It was the top model in the range. Once I held it in my hand, I knew I had to have this. It felt heavy and solid. The rubber nubs allowed my fingers to securely grip the aluminum and steel exterior. The sliding function switch was beautiful, with a hearty click at each position; when the external trimmer was activated, the swiveling head would lock in place, out of the way of the trimmer. It ran cordless or corded (120V or 220V AC). The case was exquisite: it had a layout like a side-by-side refrigerator. When one opened the right side, the tray which held the shaver would pivot forward, elevating the shaver into view. The left side of the case held the coiled electrical cord.
This shaver does not work anymore. I’m guessing it is the battery, and in my mind, I’m always thinking to repair it. Why not get a new one? Because Braun design has left this era. I am honestly not a fan of their new designs at all. This design still says Braun…still says “I’m German”. And I love this shaver. It doesn’t work, I know. But it reminds me of my other non-functioning shaver…which reminds of my dad, who’s not around anymore, whom I loved.
