Does Truefitt & Hill Offer a Glimpse into the Gentleman's Psyche?

In the early summer of 2008, I attended a concert at London’s Barbican Hall. Before the performance, I went to the restroom, and there I saw them: British gentlemen, impeccably dressed in their tailored suits, forming an orderly queue to use the facilities. Having just arrived in the UK from Italy, I couldn’t help but compare national characteristics, concluding with a satisfied nod, “The British: gentlemen even in the restroom.”

When I was asked to be a monitor for Truefitt & Hill, I must admit, it was the first time I’d heard of the brand, along with its title as “the world’s oldest barber shop.” My initial impression of Truefitt & Hill was focused on the product’s capabilities: “It must be an exceptionally sharp razor.”

However, I was surprised when I received the usage instructions. The blade, it turned out, was made by Gillette. “Hold on,” I wanted to protest indignantly, “Gentlemen, isn’t this your own razor…?” But I managed to suppress my urge. Gillette certainly makes excellent products with a global market share, meaning they’re readily available everywhere… but still, the explanation continued, with phrases like, “The scent of this cream…” and “The time it takes to apply is a pleasure for the discerning adult…” It felt, without fear of misunderstanding, as though the emphasis was on the spirit rather than the technology. Truefitt & Hill, what are you trying to tell me?


Of course, the product’s functionality is superb. Yet, I felt nuances like “because you are a gentleman” peeking through the explanations. “Is it like Bushido spirit?” I recall searching for a thread of understanding.

Could learning about Truefitt & Hill offer a glimpse into the gentleman’s psyche? Beyond the experience of the product’s functional beauty, exploring the concept of the gentleman as seen through Truefitt & Hill became my primary objective.

Discussing "Ultimate Comfort"

My Truefitt & Hill initiation was to take place in Milan, Italy. Following the instructions, I started with cleansing. The product is labeled “Ultimate Comfort Facial Cleanser.” I felt it would somehow make my skin gleam. However, I’ve only ever used facial cleanser to remove stage makeup after an opera, so I have a preconception that washing my face with cleanser first thing in the morning is a bit embarrassing. I suspect most Japanese men feel the same. Well, let’s achieve ultimate comfort for that preconception too.

When I applied it to my hands, there was no unpleasant odor. Hesitantly, I spread it on my face and rubbed. I felt a gritty texture, like sand. I’m not sure, but it seems to contain fine particles. Hmm, this is a good stimulation. I feel like it’s cleaning effectively. Unlike those weak cleansers with pleasant scents, this feels like a man’s cleanser.


Masakatsu Miyamoto Official Website
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