I prefer the type of handle that is on the Osborne knives than Dixon use, I'm partial to the oval shape. I have 3 Dixon knives, one is pretty much original size, very little sharpening even though I've had it for 40 years, holds a great edge and it rings like a bell if you flick it with your finger. One other knife just says Dixon, not Dixon & Sons, which is real good and another knife I use a lot is made by Barnesly. I do have another Dixon knife which is only about 25 years old, it's a half headknife, with a pine coloured, round handle but it is not as good as steel as the older ones.
Tony.