Works of Art
Artisan: George Neuberger
Delaware
Introduction of Works of Art
Formally known as “Customs Rod by Neuberger”, George has been building custom made fishing rods since 1975. During the earlier years of the business my work could be seen at the Philadelphia Sportsman show. Word of mouth spread and he found that the majority of my orders were generated from Florida. Back in those days he often found himself in a 9 month backlog which prevented George from enjoying his love for fishing.
Hand Crafted versus Custom Made
At current shows when George displays his work, he often advises people not to purchase the fishing rods on display. This is often followed by a look of confusion from potential buyers. George has to explain that while the rods on display are hand crafted and reflect the best of his ability, they can only be called “Hand Crafted.” While the rods may contain fancy wood inlays or thread wrapping, this “bling” doesn’t add to the functionality or performance of the fishing rod. A custom-made fishing rod is a better choice for the customer. The customer is required to complete a questionnaire to be fitted to the rod. Elements such as hand size, arm length, model of fishing reel along with the type of fishing line all combine to designing the ultimate in performance.
George says that while the bling may appeal to the customer, the quality is more important and how the parts are assembled. Works of Art will never use inferior components. As a testament to this practice, customers can ask to see rods from George’s collection dating back to 1975. Each rod he mades carries his unique signature.
Component Evolution
Customers often see George’s products at shows and ask why he displays both fishing rods and writing instruments.
Over the years, he has experimented with different material when designing a fishing rod. Cork rings, wood inlays and composite grips can all be used in fishing rods, but George introduces the use of colored epoxy and acrylics in his fishing rods.
While researching cast epoxies, George discovered that making acrylic pens used many of the same tools and techniques for making fishing rods. Upon seeing his products, Georges’ friend’s referred to them as works of art, and that is how the business was named.
Coming Full Circle
So now that pen turning skills added to his fishing rods, George wanted to bring the rod making skills into making exotic writing instruments. Starting in 2020, George started weaving threads into his pens. He promises that if a customer finds another exact duplicated pen, made by another craftsperson, he will give you the pen free of charge.
