WITCHER AERIAL 'BISTERNE Mk2'. 1 of 7, all slightly different. MINT UNUSED. 4”, medium-wide spool width (1” between the plates). Designed jointly between Paul (Witcher) and Chris Yates. The original Bisterne was conceived as a collaboration after the two met in 1996 on the famous 'Bisterne' beat of the Hampshire Avon. Based loosely on the 1920's Aerial, the original intention was to produce a limited edition of 21. In the event only 14 were made between 1997 and 2004 because, as Paul elloquently puts it, 'I ran out of steam and pixie dust'. Paul considers the latter to be an essential ingredient in making 'extra special' reels. Fortunately in 2018 it returned and Paul decided to complete the remaining seven incorporating some improvements to the original already superb design: a) the boss and pin are now sealed and spool removal is by undoing the brass screw on the backplate (using a nickel silver tool, provided within the bespoke leather cased toolkit supplied with the reel) This design means the reel only needs oiling once a year and cuts down on contamination of the bearing surfaces aiding a more consistent spinning ability. b) the reelfoot is incorporated into the backplate for cleaner lines and look. c) alternative design handles, again for an improved aesthetic.
Comes with a lifetime guarantee, a certificate of authenticity signed by both Paul and Chris and a booklet detailing the history of Witcher reels and Pauls path into making them with full details of the the 'Bisternes'. Also included is a tool kit in a very attractive bespoke calf leather case. The reel is housed in a bespoke 'D' type leather case, lined in pigskin in a rich brown with a brass buckle. Fashioned from the very highest quality materials allied to sublime engineering skills...a work of art and a complete joy to own. Simply the ultimate most desirable centrepin.
(0)
