Bolin Webb Generation vs R1: Which Razor Set Should You Buy?
By Official Bolin Webb | Luxury Men's Razors | Published: 2026-10-13
Category: Comparisons
Generation pairs a lightweight aluminium handle with Gillette Fusion5 Proglide blades; the R1 pairs an automotive-finish handle with Mach3 blades. Here's how to choose between them.
Quick answer
Choose the Generation set if you want a lightweight, precision-engineered aluminium razor with a shot-blast finish and Gillette Fusion5 Proglide blades. Choose the R1 if you prefer a heavier-feeling, automotive-finish handle with Gillette Mach3 blades, and decide between the gravity stand or travel case based on how you store your razor. Both are designed in the UK or made in England and carry a 2-year guarantee.
The real differences: handle, finish, and blade system
The Generation handle and stand are precision-engineered from aluminium with a distinctive shot-blast finish, which keeps the set light in the hand and gives it a matte, modern look. The R1 handle is primed and painted to an automotive finish, a glossier, deeper colour treatment that feels more substantial and is available in Monza Red or Volcano Red.
The blade system is the other major split. Generation sets are fitted with a Gillette Fusion5 Proglide blade, while the R1 sets use Gillette Mach3 blades with 3 blade technology. If you already have a strong preference for one cartridge family, that single fact usually decides the comparison for you.
Stand or case: match the set to how you store your razor
Both Generation options come with a stand, and the R1 Monza Red set also includes the black R1 gravity stand. The R1 Volcano Red set instead includes an award-winning case. A stand keeps the razor upright and within reach on a bathroom shelf, while a case protects the razor in a bag and suits anyone who shaves while travelling.
If you want both storage styles, note that the R1 sets are sold as either stand or case versions, so you may need to choose one or buy the other separately. The Generation sets are stand-only in the options shown here.
Price and value: what you actually pay for
At catalog prices, the Generation Graphite set is the most affordable of the four at USD 46.50, followed by the Generation Blue at USD 53.25. The R1 Volcano Red with case is USD 62.05, and the R1 Monza Red with stand is USD 63.00. Each is listed against a higher comparison price, so the discount is part of the value calculation.
The R1 commands more because of its automotive paint finish, Mach3 blade fitting, and in the Monza Red case the gravity stand. The Generation sets cost less while still offering an aluminium handle, a stand, a 2-year guarantee, and a 2023 GQ Best Shaving Product and iF Product Design Award pedigree. If budget is the deciding factor, Generation wins on price; if finish and blade feel matter more, the R1 justifies the step up.
Blade availability and long-term ownership
Because the Generation uses Gillette Fusion5 Proglide cartridges and the R1 uses Gillette Mach3 cartridges, your ongoing cost and convenience depend on which refills you can buy easily where you live. Both are widely stocked cartridge families, so neither set locks you into a hard-to-find blade.
Both sets are presented in a signature gift box, and free gift messaging is available at checkout on the R1 options. That makes either a credible gift, but the R1's automotive colour and case option give it a slight edge when the recipient travels often.
Trade-offs to weigh before you buy
- Blade system: Generation uses Gillette Fusion5 Proglide; the R1 uses Gillette Mach3 with 3 blade technology for sensitive skin. Pick the blade you already refill, or the one that suits your skin.
- Handle finish and weight: Generation is shot-blast aluminium; the R1 is primed and painted to an automotive finish. Generation feels lighter and matte; the R1 feels glossier and more substantial.
- Storage included: Generation sets include a stand; the R1 Monza Red includes a gravity stand, while the R1 Volcano Red includes an award-winning case. Choose the case version if you travel; choose a stand version if you shave at home.
- Price and value: Generation Graphite is the lowest at USD 46.50, Generation Blue is USD 53.25, R1 Volcano Red with case is USD 62.05, and R1 Monza Red with stand is USD 63.00. Generation is the value pick; the R1 is the finish-and-blade upgrade.
Product facts at a glance
- Generation Blue Shaving Set with Stand - Gillette Fusion Razor: Generation Blue Shaving Set with Stand, fitted with a Gillette Fusion5 Proglide blade, aluminium handle and stand, designed in the UK, 2-year guarantee, recyclable packaging, 2023 GQ Best Shaving Product and 2023 iF Product Design Award winner. The Fusion5 Proglide blade and lighter aluminium handle suit shavers who want a modern, precise feel and easy recycling of packaging.
- Generation Graphite Shaving Set with Stand - Gillette Fusion Razor: Generation Graphite Shaving Set with Stand, fitted with a Gillette Fusion5 Proglide blade, aluminium handle and stand, designed in the UK, 2-year guarantee, recyclable packaging, same 2023 awards. The lowest-priced Generation option, so it is the value pick if you want the aluminium handle and stand without paying for the blue finish.
- R1 Monza Red Shaving Set with Stand - Gillette Mach3 Razor: R1 Monza Red Shaving Set with Stand, fitted with Gillette Mach3 blades, 3 blade technology for sensitive skin, primed and painted to an automotive finish, presented in a signature gift box, free gift messaging available. The Mach3 blade and automotive finish make this the choice for sensitive-skin shavers who want a glossier, more substantial handle and a stand.
- R1 Volcano Red Shaving Set with Case - Gillette Mach3 Razor: R1 Volcano Red Shaving Set with Case, fitted with Gillette Mach3 blades, 3 blade technology for sensitive skin, automotive finish, award-winning case, made in England, signature gift box, free gift messaging. The case version protects the razor in transit, so it suits frequent travellers who still want the Mach3 blade and red automotive finish.
Which set fits you?
Best for
- Shavers who prefer Gillette Fusion5 Proglide blades and a lighter aluminium handle
- Buyers who want the lowest price and a stand included, especially the Graphite option
- Anyone who values recyclable packaging and a 2-year guarantee on a UK-designed set
Not for
- Shavers who specifically want Gillette Mach3 blades or a heavier, automotive-finish handle
- Travellers who need a protective case rather than a stand
- Buyers who want a glossier, more substantial handle and are willing to pay more for it
