Cello Bow - W.D.WATSON LONDON

This cello bow was made by William D. Watson circa.1985 in London. Known more commonly as 'Bill', Watson was the apprentice of William Retford from 1945 until 1951 when he left for National Service in the Royal Air Force. Throughout his apprenticeship Watson was able to observe the work of previous Hill bow makers such as Leeson and Bishop, as well as bows from important French makers. Arthur Bultitude was a maker in the Hill firm around the same time as Watson, and when he setup his own independent workshop, Watson became the senior bow maker and was responsible for fine bows, and supervising colleagues and apprentices. By 1962, Watson had left Hills, and setup a workshop at his home in Denham.

This bow is stamped "W.D. Watson. London." and weighs 84.41 grams. The stick has been rounded and is made of pernambuco. It measures 71.7cm in length, and has silver lapping and a leather grip. The frog is made from ebony and is fully silver mounted with a pearl eye and a one-piece silver button. It is in good condition This cello bow possesses a sound that is rich, yet full of clarity.

The stick is flexible and springy, and when players draw the bow across the strings, it is smooth to the touch and maintains this feeling across the full dynamic range. The bow is very responsive and is expressive in both fast and legato bow strokes.

Please contact us if you would like to try this beautiful English cello bow!