I special ordered a batch of these brushes to try out. I had them made without the nickel ring on it so that they could put a larger (28mm) knot in it. It is supposed to be a larger version of the B03-A26 brush that I've been recommending for face lathering but the loft is slightly higher. Part of that is because the ring is not there and with the knot set at the same depth in the handle, the other reason is that they set it slightly higher. This is still a short brush for a boar knot this size. Effective loft is 53-55mm with glue bump.

Zenith is a brand of shaving brushes made by Pennellificio Pandolfo in Palermo, Italy. Since 1902, this family run business has produced quality brushes not just for shaving needs,but also for paint, artists, and cosmetics. Their shaving brushes and knots are hand made by skilled artisans the old fashioned way.

They have three lines of badger brushes, their Black Badger, Best Badger, and Silvertip. At this time, I will be focusing on their Best Badger, Silvertip, and Boar brushes.

Metal Handle Professional Shave Brush. This brush has a large and dense 28 mm Boar Knot attached to it. Unlike most of the other Zenith Pro brushes, loft is set at only 61mm. Effective loft is 53-55mm from the glue bump. This makes this brush a great face latherer without the flop. Total weight is a respectable 94 grams.

In one picture, I've shown a used Omega 48 for comparison. It is very similar in size. While the actual knot height is shorter, the perceived knot height is even less because of how the Pandolfo artisans epoxy the knots.

Translated from Italian on their website:

"Pennellificio Pandolfo has over one hundred years of activity and is the only manufacturer of its Sicilian sector. Already in 1902 he participated in the fair in Genoa getting a coveted award for the quality of its products. A family business founded early last century with the aim of achieving the quality brushes and special characteristics which in those days was not easy to find on the market. Started with artisan methods, the production was mainly aimed at meeting the needs of professional customers. Then the company has added new technologies by diversifying production, expanding the range of products and adapting to the specific needs of the market. Today, the production of Pennellificio Pandolfo includes products suitable to meet the professional needs of DIY: the various series of ovals brushes, flat brushes, ceilings, astuccini and brushes for particular uses, it has been joined by a complete line of rollers and brushes for beautiful Arts. The quality of products is guaranteed Pennellificio Pandolfo experience gained over time, from the careful selection of raw materials and the use of skilled labor."

In 2008-2009, I found a brush at a thrift store that was unused. It quickly became my favorite brush and I used it solely for 6-7 years. The logo wore off years ago, but I always remembered that it was made in Italy. As I learned more about shaving brushes, I wrongfully assumed that this brush was made by Pennellificio Omega, the famous Italian brush manufacturer. Fortunately in the spring of 2015, I stumbled across some discussion posts on Zenith brushes, but was unable to purchase one here in the States. After contacting the manufacturer, I decided to bring these special brushes to you. My original Zenith brush has given me (and is still giving me) years of pleasure. I expect this Zenith brush will do the same for you.

If, when you open your package, you are unhappy with your purchase, please contact me for a return. Unfortunately, I am unable to give returns on used brushes.