Tom Blake: The Uncommon Journey of a Pioneer Waterman (Surfing) by Gary Lynch, and Malcolm Gault-Williams - 2001

Croul Family Foundation, 2001. Hardcover. Like New. 9x6x1. Gary Lynch, and Malcolm Gault-Williams's massive, stunning tribute to surfing super-legend Tom Blake. First edition, limited to 2700 copies, of which this is copy #2275. From noted Surfing historian and sociologist Dr. Kristin Lawler: "Tom Blake is a legendary figure; he's considered the founder of California surf culture. He personally innovated most of what's associated with surfers to this day: he was the first to experiment with making better surfboards, revolutionizing board design in the process with lightweight materials and the fin; he was the first to build a waterproof camera housing and inaugurated the tradition of surfers documenting themselves and their friends; and he was the first among countless surfers to come to write a book on the history and pleasures of surfing. In addition, his personal style became the prototypical beachcomber look, still in effect today." Much biographical content here with hundreds of historical photos, many action views, examples of surf boards designed by Blake, an original 2-page fold-out plan for building one of his surfboards, many early illustrated ads and much more. Beautifully bound in sand-colored cloth with mounted photo of Blake to front panel. 256 pp. 12 1/4" x 9 1/4". Tight, immaculate copy. Extremities crisp. Unmarked front to back. An exceptional copy of an important surfing collectible. Photographs of or additional information about this item are available on request. All inquiries answered promptly.