A WILLIAM ROSS PATENT SPRING-FACE IRON, CIRCA 1893

Gunmetal head hollowed and fitted with a spring steel face held in place by three rivots



Back of blade stamped "Ross Patent"



Hickory shaft with sheepskin grip

TGC p. 76; TCA p. 336; TCA 2 Vol. 2 p. 413

Overall very good condition with normal wear. Please note that most lots describe a basic overall condition status. Please note that it is the nature of this type of memorabilia to be in excellent or very good condition and still have some age wear. To request individual detailed condition reports, please contact Lisa Ladish or Kevin Schwartz in Sotheby's Collectibles Department.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This club is the first spring face iron ever patented. Ross, a self-described engineering draftsman, stated in his 1893 patent that a spoon-like cavity formed behind the face plate created the elasticity needed to provide the spring effect and to increase length. Despite its attractive look and the bon mots in the July 1898 Golfers Magazine ("The club is now in actual use and has proved thoroughly effective. It is a nicely finished club and is non-corrosive"), the club was not well received and only five remain.