Professionally restored 1920, Westley Richards 8ft, 4oz Split Cane
A professionally restored 1920 Westley Richards 8ft, 4oz split cane fly rod is a highly desirable piece for collectors and anglers alike, blending historical craftsmanship with modern restoration expertise. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its significance and key features:
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1. Westley Richards & Co. Heritage
– Reputation: Founded in 1812, Westley Richards is a legendary British gun and rifle maker that also produced high-quality fishing tackle. Their rods are prized for precision engineering and elite sporting pedigree.
– Era: A 1920s rod represents the golden age of split cane construction, when craftsmanship peaked before synthetic materials took over.
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2. Split Cane Construction
– Material: Hand-split bamboo (Tonkin cane) glued and bound into hexagonal sections for strength and flexibility.
– Action: A 4oz (113g) weight suggests a light-to-medium action, ideal for delicate dry-fly fishing on small-to-medium rivers.
– Length: 8ft is versatile—shorter than classic salmon rods but perfect for trout or grayling in tight streams.
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3. Restoration Details
– Professional Work: A quality restoration should preserve originality while addressing wear. Look for:
– Replaced guides: Modern snake or stripper guides with period-correct styling.
– Re-wrapped threads: Color-matched to original silk, sealed with durable varnish.
– Ferrules: Polished and reset for smooth fit; possibly re-nickeled.
– Cork grip: Cleaned or replaced with aged cork for authenticity.
– Varnish: Redone to protect cane without obscuring the rod’s patina.
– Authenticity: Restorers should retain original markings (e.g., “Westley Richards,” serial numbers) and avoid over-refinishing.
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4. Collectibility & Value
– Rarity: Pre-WWII Westley Richards rods are uncommon; an 8ft model is especially sought-after due to its usability.
– Price Range:
– Unrestored: £500–£1,200 ($600–$1,500) depending on condition.
– Professionally restored: £1,500–£3,000+ ($1,800–$3,600+), with premium for documentation/provenance.
– Market: Sold via niche auction houses (e.g., Mullocks, Angling Auctions), dealers (Hardy Bros., Classic Fly Fisherman), or private collectors.
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5. Fishing vs. Collecting
– Usability: A well-restored rod can still fish beautifully, but many buyers acquire it as a display piece or heirloom.
– Cautions: Avoid heavy lines or aggressive casting; cane rods require gentle handling.
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6. Verification Tips
– Check Markings: Look for stamped text (e.g., “Westley Richards, Birmingham”) and original bag/label.
– Provenance: Letters, receipts, or period catalogs (e.g., 1920s W.R. catalogs) boost value.
– Expert Appraisal: Consult specialists like Gary Mills (Classic Rod & Reel) or Roger Still (Split Cane Rod Co.).
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Final Thoughts
This rod is a fusion of art and function—a testament to pre-war British craftsmanship. If the restoration was done by a renowned expert (e.g., B.D. Magee, Art Weiler), its value and appeal increase significantly. Whether you’re an angler or collector, it’s a tangible link to fly-fishing’s aristocratic past.
Would you like help identifying specific restoration techniques or reputable buyers/sellers?