Lot 578
  • 578

A GAVIN PATENT (PENDING) "NOVAKCLUB" BY THE ALL IN ONE ADJUSTABLE GOLF CLUB CORP OF SAN FRANCISCO, CIRCA 1926-29

bidding is closed

Description

Conventionally shaped iron blade



Back of blade stamped "Novakclub / Patent Pending / Trademark Reg. / 6 Federal St. / San Francisco"



Adjustable by means of a small extension running from heel of club into socket in hosel



Can be locked into position by means of serrated teeth



Top of hosel marked with indicator stamped "P, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5" representing the loft selections



Hickory shaft with leather grip

Literature

TCA p. 373; TCA 2 Vol. 2 p. 457

Condition

Overall excellent condition with little or no evidence of use or wear, adjustable mechanism is working freely. Please note that most lots describe a basic overall condition status. Please note that it is the nature of this type of memorabilia to be in excellent or very good condition and still have some age wear. To request individual detailed condition reports, please contact Lisa Ladish or Kevin Schwartz in Sotheby's Collectibles Department.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

Designed by a Father Gavin of Nevada, a Catholic priest who wilted under the burden he had to carry (of multiple clubs), the "Novakclub" was patented in 1926 and is one of the easier adjustable loft irons to find. Joe Novak, a pro at Berkeley Country Club used it repeatedly, only carrying the adjustable iron and a driver, scoring in the low 70's. Convinced, he patented his version in 1927. For a brief time it was made with a hickory shaft, then steel shafted versions took over.

(C) 2025 Sotheby's
All alcoholic beverage sales in New York are made solely by Sotheby's Wine (NEW L1046028)