| A consequence of
the many workshops Robert has given in NZ, was his discovery of the Bernard
Leach Wheel, made by Seaboard Joinery. These wheels, very popular in
the 1960's , were made with the written approval of Mr. Leach and may be the
only wheels that can claim to have his authorization.
The "Leach Wheels" made by Seaboard Joinery, were offered in three
heights, short, medium and tall. The wheels are identical in every way
except for the height, which was varied to accommodate shorter or longer legs of
potters.
The treadle wheels
were made of native hardwoods that have been oiled to bring out the natural
color of these unique Australian and New Zealand woods. The wooden flywheel has been repainted.
Designed with ball bearings the action of the treadle is smooth and quite. The leather cam strap,
if kept oiled can last indefinitely. The splash basin was not repainted, the original paint
color from the 1960's of light green has been left as is, for historical
reasons.
The folks at Seaboard Joinery gave me a copy
of a letter written in long hand by Bernard Leach,
authorizing the use of his name on the wheel. A plaque on the side of the wheel
reads,
"LEACH WHEEL, with the
Permission of Bernard Leach" .
Made by Seaboard Joinery, Auckland, NZ
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