Understood, and I agree. At least two of the websites described in this thread offer good photos of what they’re offering (classicflyfisherman and coldwatercollectibles). Of course, the proprietors of those sites have also built solid reputations, which still means something these days. To me anyway.
Sorry to be otherwise useless in answering your initial questions, but I know this thread has been helpful for some other folks.
My apologies for suggesting a classic, vintage, very well made and in excellent condition bamboo fly rod which would only increase in value given reasonable care and for posting where one could be found at a reasonable price. Forgive me for expressing my opinions when comparing American made, classic, vintage equipment as compared to modern, foreign made copies of vintage, bamboo fly rods.
Buy the Headwaters. It will be new and shiny.
Vic
Agreed.
Bob