Overview
A beautifully preserved commercial display of hand-tied 'Wet Flies' mounted on natural cork strips within its original wooden presentation box.
Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A beautifully preserved commercial display of hand-tied 'Wet Flies' mounted on natural cork strips within its original wooden presentation box.
Story
Following the end of World War II, Japan's traditional expertise in silk-weaving and needlecraft was pivoted toward the burgeoning American leisure market, specifically the 'Golden Age' of fly fishing.
Maker / Origin
Edwards Overseas Service was a prominent mid-century California importer that bridged the gap between Japanese craftsmanship and American outdoorsmen.
Condition & Value
The flies appear to be in exceptional, unused condition with no signs of moth damage or feather decay. The paper backing shows light, attractive age-toning (foxing) that confirms its vintage, and the cork remains supple. The box structure appears sound. Excellent preservation adds a 20% premium over typical 'used' tackle boxes.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375