Step Back in Time at the Classics Barber Shop

If you love classic cars, humor, the Rat Pack, and 1950’s memorabilia, it’s time for you to get a haircut.  

You will not believe your eyes when you enter the located in Palm Harbor. It’s simple. The place has pizzaz.

Lynn Waters, the energetic and witty owner, has been cutting hair for more than 20 years.

She estimates that she has given over 40,000 haircuts; mostly to men. “I love to make people look more attractive,” said Waters. “It takes too long to cut women’s hair, and they can be fussy. I can finish cutting a man’s hair in 20 minutes, and they are always happy.”

Classics is located in the space formerly occupied by Michael T’s Barber Shop. After Waters graduated from “Barber School” she went to work at Michael T’s. Twenty years later in 2008, she bought the place.  

Waters immediately transformed the shop with a barbershop makeover. The white walls and brown carpet were replaced by checkerboard tiles and vibrant pastels. It provided a perfect venue for the dozens of old pictures, antiques, and knick knacks.

“I love each and every item that is on display. said Waters.  “I don’t want all this stuff to be forgotten, so now people will remember.”  

Waters must be doing something right. Business is booming. She has a staff of four. The shop specializes in cutting men’s hair, but women are welcome as well.  While the other three staff members are certified barbers, Linda Montour is a licensed cosmetologist. “Linda takes care of all of the services that  the rest of us don’t do.” said Waters.

“I bet that over six thousand pounds of hair has been swept off of our floors over the years,” said Walter Hass, one of the shops barbers. Hass keeps the place hopping with his wit, charm, and wise cracks. Laughter is always in the air.

Waters is proud to say that she has hundreds of regular customers. Her oldest client is 94 years-old, and the youngest is seven months. “That baby had a lot of hair,” said Walters with a laugh.

“I come here because of price and a great haircut,” said customer Don Robbins, “Walter cuts my hair. He is amazing; he can remember exactly how he cut my hair even after a couple of months.”

It appears there are always people waiting for a haircut at this busy barbershop, but none of them seem to mind. The conversation, humor, and atmosphere give the shop a true hometown feeling.

“In this business you can’t hide anything," said Waters, "I know all about my customers, and they know all about me.”

Prices are budget-friendly $10 at the Classics Barber Shop and the décor, laughter, and company are priceless.

Classics Barber Shop is located at 30561 US Highway 19 N. Hours are Tues-Fri 9a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.