John Steinbeck "The Wester Flyer"
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Estimated Delivery:Feb 20 - Feb 24
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Free Shipping & Returns: On all orders over $75

John Steinbeck "The Wester Flyer"
The Western Flyer Necklace is a tribute to adventure, literature, and maritime history, crafted from reclaimed boat wood with a legendary past. This exceptional piece originates from The Western Flyer, the historic fishing vessel that carried John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts on their 1940 expedition to the Gulf of California. Their journey aboard the vessel led to the publication of Sea of Cortez (1941), later revised as The Log from the Sea of Cortez (1951), a seminal work blending science, philosophy, and environmentalism. Now, this storied wood has been meticulously repurposed, transforming remnants of seafaring history into an artifact you can wear.
Built in 1937 bythe Western Boat Building Company in Tacoma, Washington, The Western Flyer was designed for the Monterey sardine fishery, with the strength and endurance to journey annually to Alaska for salmon. Constructed from old-growth fir, the boat represents an era of exceptional craftsmanship and maritime ingenuity. As time passed and the vessel changed hands, it endured decades of wear and decay. Now reclaimed and revitalized, its wood finds new life in the gem-cut precision of Found & Found jewelry, where history and sustainability merge into a singularly unique necklace.
Each pendant is carefully shaped, polished to a silky-smooth finish, and sealed with Rubio Monocoat, a plant-based, food-safe oil that enhances the wood’s rich grain while preserving its legacy. Suspended from a durable braided leather cord, the Western Flyer Necklace is designed for both comfort and versatility, with an adjustable length to suit any style. Weighing just 4oz, it is lightweight yet profound in significance.
More than just an accessory, the Western Flyer Necklace is a piece of history—a tangible connection to a vessel that carried one of America’s greatest literary minds on a transformative journey. For those who admire Steinbeck’s legacy, honor the sea’s enduring spirit, or appreciate the art of repurposed materials, this necklace is a true treasure. It stands as a reminder that objects, like stories, can live on—changing form but never losing their meaning.
Necklace Details
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Necklace Length: Adjustable length from 10 - 20 inches long.
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Oil Finish: Rubio Monocoat (plant-based & food safe)
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Leather: Durable braided chord
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Weight: 4oz
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Wood Sourcing: Reclaimed boat wood from The Western Voyager
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Wood Texture: Very smooth to the touch, fine finish
Shipping cost is based on weight. Just add products to your cart and use the Shipping Calculator to see the shipping price.
We want you to be 100% satisfied with your purchase. Items can be returned or exchanged within 30 days of delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Care for My Jewelry?
Our handcrafted pieces are made from durable wood, leather, and metal, but to ensure their longevity, we recommend treating them like fine jewelry.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to water, especially chlorine or salt water.
- Store in a dry place when not in use.
- Clean gently with a soft cloth—avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives.
Warranty – 90 Days
We stand by the craftsmanship of our pieces. Our 90-day warranty covers repairs for broken or damaged wooden gems (if possible) and hardware replacements. As a small business, we only charge at cost for these repairs, plus a nominal shipping fee.
Warranty Void If:
- Exposed to chlorine (pools, hot tubs) or salt water.
- Damage occurs beyond the 90-day period.
If your jewelry needs repair after 90 days, we’re happy to help for a small repair fee.
Returns & Exchanges
We want you to be 100% satisfied with your purchase! If you're not happy with your item, you have 30 days from delivery to return or exchange it.
- Customers are responsible for return shipping costs.
- Free local returns/drop-offs are available in Santa Cruz at Mariposa – 1010 Pacific Ave.
- Items must be in their original condition.
For assistance with a return or exchange, please contact us.