Recommending Someone Else a DE

I use a Rockwell 6S. Tried a 6C 3 months ago but it arrived with coating issues so I sent it back. Wanted to try if it was indeed slicker than a 6S.

Dont have to be a material science major to know these alloys deteriorate too soon without coating or already flaking off.

Where I'm from (Singapore), a 6S is closer to 200 local currency so it pinches harder. A friend is interested in wet shaving ever since he noticed the absence of razor bumps which was plaguing my head with cartridge. So I've been wondering what to get him as a gift to try things out.

Yesterday I searched this sub using the term 'worn'. A few too many results of the Rockwell 6C (88 dollars over here) came up. Coating worn off from use (less than a year!), threads deteriorating or full on corrosion. That's not the definition of durable at all.

I'm currently thinking of the Merkur 34C. A robust stubby beauty. Outwardly. Or would Rockwell 6C in chrome have better mileage than the gunmetal.

So I have to ask, realistically, how long does chrome hold up as a daily driver? Is it going to hold up for 2 years before looking like a wizened veteran?

Edit: Also considering a Yaqi stainless steel tile head (Henson knock off). Are all Yaqi handles interchangeable?