Taytelbaum Paddles by Eddy Taytelbaum

I love paddles and Eddy’s are even better

One good thing about the recession is that these Taytelbaum paddles sold at a "reasonable" price…still several hundreds, but not 3 figures as in the past. That’s how much in demand Eddy’s work exists.

I find it sort of ironic how much complaints I read about the Tenyo line being made from plastic that a new Tenyo Elite venture will try to correct this for performers and collectors. The quality of the effects is there, it’s the material that turns people off. Yet, people are willing to pay the big bucks on one particular line of plastic magic tricks that happens to carry the Taytelbaum name. Of course, what Eddy sculpts from plastic are masterpieces and well deserved of the praise and prices these demands, but was just thinking.

Anyway, here are two paddles that sold as a set at a Swann auction. The top is a classic chalk paddle and the bottom is a rather unique version of the jumping peg paddle. The design is very interesting as the close-up image can attest. Not sure what inspired Eddy to design it as I have never seen another jumping peg paddle like this one. Both were in mint condition and so beautiful up close. One can only admire the workmanship. No recommendations needed here, the Taytelbaum name speaks for itself.

Source: Taytelbaum Paddles

Cork Penetration by Eddy Taytelbaum

Wish I had more Taytelbaums

Eddy Taytelbaum has no equal and inspired the mini-magic line that Alan Warner took on as the next generation with splendid results. This is Eddy’s cork penetration effect which, I am told, was invented by him.
The effect is clearly visible in the images. The cork can be examined before or after the effect. I have seen others copy this effect, but there is clearly NO comparison to the original.

The slide is so elegant as only Eddy can handcraft. It’s all wood with a beautifully applied dark green paint and his signature gold striping on the edges. The paint job is so smooth I can only think of Milson-Worth as the only other builder with such excellent results. It is hinged so it can be opened to expel any suspicions (the slide is ungimmicked). A brass hinge at one end keeps the slide locked closed.

Considering its age, this sample is in fantastic shape, as mint as you can get…what a relief as I have seen many Taytelbaums in poor condition. But, then, these were intended to be used. I only wish I had more of Eddy’s work in my collection, but it is hard to come by and expensive when is does.

Source: Cork Penetration

Card Changing Frame by Eddy Taytelbaum

No plastic on this one

Most of Eddy Taytelbaum’s line of handcrafted mini-magic is made in plastic, but the quality is unsurpassed, the work of a true craftsman. This is all wood construction and beautifully painted in semi-glossy black with a gold trimming..very elegant, first class prop. This one is very thin, has a open space in the middle, and the card to be changed slides in and out of the open box frame. Yes, a "flap" is used as in the more common card boxes, but deceptively hidden on this Taytelbaum piece. This is the second Taytelbaum item I have acquired and I am now starting to understand the reason behind the demand for his magic. This, as all Taytelbaum pieces I acquire, is stored with my Warner collection in a special place separate from my main magic collection as a honor to these two greats.

Source: Card Changing Frame

Uncanny Die Box by Eddy Taytelbaum

Now I believe the hype on this craftsman

This is the first Taytelbaum item in my collection and it’s a great piece. Small black box houses three different colored dice. One die is simply tilted out, placed in the pocket, and the box clearly only shows two remaining dice. Box is closed and slightly shaken to demonstrate that there are still the dice loose inside. Magic words, box is opened and the die has returned to the box. The method is quite diabolical and automatic in execution. No palming and no fancy moves. I would never have guessed it…what a clever mind!

Constructed of some plastic material, standard material for Eddy, doesn’t detract from the quality of this item. I had previously commented that Eddy’s stuff was probably just "fancy Tenyo" stuff. Well, I must apologize and retract those words. This particular item is definitely on a different level of craftsmanship. I love it so much that it now resides with my beloved Warner collection. I first heard of Eddy Taytelbaum when I became interested in Alan Warner. Eddy was actually the inspiration for Alan to develop his line of Mini-Magic.

It’s just too bad that quality like this is rare.

Source: Uncanny Die Box