Long time no see Edward worth the wait. Reason for hesitation when viewing your combination of Don Wards casting is by now there are many replies your pic is way back in memory.I thought immediately those blanks were either Dons or Seamus up the road ten minutes from him. I find the Gentleman Pen a preferred kit your transition top to bottom that is between the top clip and the way in which it is very pleasing apart sets it way ahead of others IMHO.
My natural fear of Snakes also no predudices of anyone using the skins allows me full reign to see the beauty of the patterns and marvel at the presentation they make I think the display in the box is excellent. Not a fan of glass or perspex blocks under the pen for the photograph too many spurious reflections for me. They divert as you view the two great items.
I fully appreciate the opener it is not a poor relation in the pairing with a decent length in the handle that dominates the kit (unusual for these). Glad my six kids are removed from home thinking of all the mischief and probabilities if they and these were together unsupervised, what I am getting at your display brings with it an adult appreciation convincing me this set would grace any boardroom anywhere in the world and hold its own on any desk I have ever seen. Great impact, I gave up forever ago trying to please everyone with what I make or undertake and sometimes curse the education provided and sought by me that demanded perfection in every detail.
So Edward well made, chosen blanks and all the above.
Peter.