The Philips Norelco Sensotouch 3D is also known as the Philips Norelco Shaver 8900, (Model code S1280X/42) and is one of the models in the Philips Norelco 8000 series.
If that is all a bit complicated, (and I personally do get a bit lost in Philips model naming methods), remembering this shaver after you experience it is dead simple.
If you prefer a Rotary Electric razor, and are willing to pay for the very best, this is possibly your next Electric Shaver.
The Philips 8000 series includes 3 models 1250, 1280 and 1290. But by the time we add in the model extensions things get a little messy. For example, we end up the 1250x/40 (known as the 8100), the 1250/42 (the 8700), the 1280X/42 (the 8900) and the 1290X/40 (the 8800) and there are other extensions which indicate variations in packaging.
The savior in all of this is the fact that, like other brands, all of the shavers in this 8000 series share the one set of core Electric Shaver features, and beyond that all of the numbers and extensions basically indicate that certain optional aspects are either included or excluded when you buy one.
For this review we will focus on the Philips Sensotouch 3D (1280x/42 (8900) Shaver), which comes fully loaded with all of the Series 8000 features. Along the way we will attempt to explain the model numbering system, and identify which features are omitted from which models.
Making Sense of the Philips Norelco 8000 Series.
At the core of the Philips Norelco Sensotouch 3D, (and the other series 8000 shavers) is the Philips RQ12 shaver head.
This beautifully crafted head also gives the “3D” to the Sensotouch name, as its components tilt or move, in all three dimensions.
According to Philips, the Gyroflex 3D system effortlessly follows the curves and contours of your face. Each of the three shaver heads is independently mounted, allowing each to move in any direction it needs. The individual heads flex outward, tilt inward or pivot as needed.
As you can see, the Head consists of very carefully designed openings. Philips describe the head as consisting of three separate Shaving Tracks, consisting of slots to capture long hairs, Channels to handle Longer Hairs, and holes to deal with the shorter stubble.
Below the head covers are a pair of rotating , patented “Super Lift & Cut” blades which function as a multi-blade manual razor does. The first blade lifts the hair whilst second follows and cuts the lifted hair. This effectively cuts the hair below the skin, producing an extremely close shave.
Completing the design is the low friction surface of the heads. Couple this with the fact that the added flexibility of the shaver head design, means less pressure is needed to reach the trouble spots, and you have an extremely close shave with very little skin irritation.
If sensitivity is a major concern, you also have the option of using the Philips Sensotouch 3d , and the other 8000 series models, as a wet shaver.
This series is completely sealed, so you can use it in the shower if you choose, with or without shaving gel’s or creams, to produce a more soothing shaving regime.
The unique Philips Norelco Sensotouch 3D Look
Positioning the Gyroflex 3D head, on an elongated and angled body produces a sleek, unique looking shaver. The body is molded to your hand, providing an easy to hold, slip resistant grip, even in the shower.
This shaver is finished in Black/Chrome, but depending on the model you choose, your shaver may be finished in black plastic, (1250X) or a black/metal (1290X) finish.
Cleaning
The Philips Norelco sensotouch 3D shaver can be cleaned by simply removing the foil cover from each shaver head and rinsing it under a tap, and brushing with the cleaning brush provided. However selected models (including the Sensotouch 3D) also come with the Jet Clean System
The base of the Jet Clean stand is filled with the cleaning solution, and at the push of a button the shaver head is lowered, cleaned and returned, ready for its next use.
The jet clean system delivered with the 1280/42 has 3 cleaning programs to choose from (as opposed to just one with the 1250/42 option). These programs, Eco, Auto and Intensive. Using the Eco option shortens the drying program from two hours to one hour (saving a little electricity). The Intensive setting increases the “auto” cleaning cycle from it’s normal 4-6 minutes to 35 minutes for a thorough clean.
If the model you are looking at has a /42, a /cc or a /47 in its model number, the Jet Clean system is included. Told you it was confusing.
The addition of the Jet Clean system adds to the cost of purchasing and operating the shaver. Whether that cost is justified by the longer life of the shaver due to optimal cleaning and maintenance is for you to decide.
Charging and Shaving Time.
The 1280/42 provides up to 60 minutes shaving time on a 60 minute recharge. (The 1290 model is the same, whilst the 1250 models offer a shorter, 50 minute life on the same 1 hour charge). Assuming an average , 3 minute, shaving routine, this suggests 2o days down to 17 days between recharging. A small difference, but perhaps significant if you are traveling. It is also likely that this battery performance differential will increase over time, as the batteries inevitably lose some punch after many recharge sessions, so start with the stronger battery if you can.
The higher spec models (1280 and 1290) both have a 5 level LED battery indicator, and a digital battery indicator. The 1250X models have only a three stage LED indicator and no numeric readout.
All models have a 5 minute, quick charge function to get you through a single shave.
Speaking of traveling, you can simply leave the Jet Clean system at home, recharge via the charging stand if needed, and clean the heads via the cleaning brush and a rinse under the tap. All models, except surprisingly the 1290X, come with a travel lock.
Common Features
In summary, all models have the same overall design (finish varies as above). All are fully waterproof, supporting both wet and Dry shaving, all come with a precision trimmer, and NONE offer corded shaving.
All models have a cleaning indicator, battery level indicators, replacement head indicator,and rechargeable Li-ion batteries.
All have automatic voltage adaption from 100 to 240 volts.
All share the RQ12 head which is recommended to be replaced every 12 months.
All come with a travel pouch
Main Variations
The significant variations (apart from the visual difference) is the inclusion of the Jet Clean system with the 1250/42 and 1280/42 models, and the lower battery life on the 1250X (50 minutes), compared to the 60 minute life for the 1280x and 1290X
Most significantly perhaps, all models provide an extremely close, low irritation shave. This in our opinion is the best Rotary Shaver on the market and that wins it the #2 position in our Top 10 Electric Shaver List.
Your can check pricing and availability of the Philips Norelco sensotouch 3D (8900) shaver here
