In Memoriam, Ralph Watson.

In Memoriam, Ralph Watson.

23/8/16, marks the tenth anniversary of the death of a longstanding motor sports competitor of the old school and specially talented engineer, Ralph Ogden Watson.

I for one very much miss the much valued intellectual discussions covering many subjects sadly now no longer possible. However I intend to visit Ralph’s parent’s grave at Purewa, where his ashes are interned and where in spirit, I will fondly hope for a further intuitive chat.

Although not readily understood, deep down Ralph was a very nice guy in every respect and a true friend. I am confident that he rests in peace. It is an honour to remember him.

http://ralphwatson.scienceontheweb.net/

http://www.speedsportblog.com/2014/0...echanical.html

Trevor.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Trevor Sheffield

In Memoriam, Ralph Watson.

Friday 26/8/16, marks the tenth anniversary of the death of a longstanding motor sports competitor of the old school and specially talented engineer, Ralph Ogden Watson.

I for one very much miss the much valued intellectual discussions covering many subjects sadly now no longer possible. However I intend to visit Ralph’s parent’s grave at Purewa, where his ashes are interned and where in spirit, I will fondly hope for a further intuitive chat.

Although not readily understood, deep down Ralph was a very nice guy in every respect and a true friend. I am confident that he rests in peace. It is an honour to remember him.

http://ralphwatson.scienceontheweb.net/

http://www.speedsportblog.com/2014/0...echanical.html

Trevor.

---

Trevor, thank you a great tribute to a man who was a genius in engineering, and well known to my Uncle Eddie Dowding, I met him once at my house in 1981 or so, when he visited my flatmate Lyle Chambers who had a BSA Special sports car.

Bruce Dyer sent me a few photos of LX 5504 Ralph Watson's BSA Special, that is covered in Trevor's articles.
Was looking for a " NZ Specials thread " but couldn't find one on TRS.. could be a new one is required..??

The photos date from 1998 from the same set as some Bucklers and other cars taken at Manfield and Taupo.

Attachment 40100

Attachment 40101

Attachment 40102

Attachment 40103

Attachment 40104

Attachment 40105

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Roger Dowding

Attachment 40101

---

Jim Short's Ferrari replica in the background?

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by ERC

Jim Short's Ferrari replica in the background?

---

Ray, thanks - Jim had some great cars over the years, in these Bruce Dyer " Spgeti " photos there are some great cars in the background .. must let Jim and Stuart see the picture

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by ERC

Jim Short's Ferrari replica in the background?

---

Yes it is Ray.

[QUOTE=Roger Dowding;56887]Bruce Dyer sent me a few photos of LX 5504 Ralph Watson's BSA Special, that is covered in Trevor's articles.
Was looking for a " NZ Specials thread " but couldn't find one on TRS.. could be a new one is required..??

The photos date from 1998 from the same set as some Bucklers and other cars taken at Manfield and Taupo.

Special thanks Roger,

Great photos from Bruce Dyer and great that they are preserved here. The Watson BSA Special in its final form is very special indeed and has significance on the world stage.

It demonstrates a world first and a unique 1990 achievement, i.e. the successful design and production of a viable rotary-valve engine. In fact it constitutes a piece of ongoing mechanical history and as such the BSA Special has intrinsic value beyond that of the usual collectable car. Hopefully therefore it will always remain treasured and cared for, but should remain in action continuing its extensive history in competition in accordance with the creator’s wishes, rather than stagnate as a static show piece.

Owner Martin Ferner wrote to Ralph, 12/11/ 2002. —-

“ In fact it is a continuing surprise. I am dumfounded at the amazing torque available at low revs. If one parallels it to a poppet valve motor, with what must be regarded as fairly wild valve opening periods, I would expect little torque at low revs and a strong band of torque at higher revs when the gas flow is established. This engine seems to pull lustily from low revs and to do so evenly over a wide range.”

Ralph ranked the rotary-valve as his major achievement, for very good reason. His unique rotary-valve design was not the result of an accidental whim, or a lucky conception. The innovative and absolutely novel main seal which he designed, comprised the key to the success of the project.

It is surprising that there was not the necessity for several prototypes and endless costly modification and testing. I was witness to same when in Australia together with Ralph visiting an engine development company. Significantly Ralph was unable to glean any useful information. This specialist organisation had been previously working on a rotary valve design for a considerable time backed by overseas finance and assistance from Briggs and Stratton, but they had given up in desperation up after a great deal of time and money had been spent.

Ralph’s inventive design incorporates several completely novel features and as such would have supported patent protection, but this prospect was rejected on grounds that those close to him could appreciate.

Those interested will find full details here. —-

http://ralphwatson.scienceontheweb.net/rotary.html

R I P, Ralph Watson, Kiwi Special Engineer.

23/07/1918 — 23/08/2006

http://ralphwatson.scienceontheweb.net

R I P, Ralph Watson, our Very Special Kiwi Engineer.

23/07/1918 — 23/08/2006

http://ralphwatson.scienceontheweb.net

A "Small" tribute to Ralph Watson

Attachment 67370

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by chaindrive

A "Small" tribute to Ralph Watson

Attachment 67370

---

You have done Ralph proud.

Please post detailed information concerning the construction of the model as well as your plans covering its upkeep. It comprises everlasting memorabilia beyond its intrinsic value and should remain preserved in-perpetuity.

Thanks Trevor. It's not very accurate or detailed. Did this a few years ago now by using pics to make drawings. It's sort of former and planking method using styrene plastic sheet. !/24 scale. Think the son has put his order in !!

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by chaindrive

Thanks Trevor. It's not very accurate or detailed. Did this a few years ago now by using pics to make drawings. It's sort of former and planking method using styrene plastic sheet. !/24 scale. Think the son has put his order in !!

---

Good news. If it stays within the family it is likely to remain preserved. It has been sculptured very well and there is certainly sufficient excellent detail. I have a single copy of my book waiting for a good home and if you do not already have one, I would like you to have it so that it can be partnered with and remain with the the model. Send me a PM.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Trevor Sheffield

Good news. If it stays within the family it is likely to remain preserved. It has been sculptured very well and there is certainly sufficient excellent detail. I have a single copy of my book waiting for a good home and if you do not already have one, I would like you to have it so that it can be partnered with and remain with the the model. Send me a PM.

---

What a great thought Trevor, as we know " Chaindrive " has made many great models of " significant " New Zealand Cars,both Specials and well known Imported racers - from the 1950's to more recent.

" Chaindrive " - next project could be the Ralph Watson BSA Special - I have a number of photos of the car taken by " Spgeti " plus a few of my own, and many borrowed from Trevor's book.
[I have the revised Edition in Book form and the Original as a link on my Laptop ]. Plus some photos from others.

Last photo I took of the car was 2017 at Chelsea Walsh, the last time the event was run. Ray Ferner through the sweeper

This from 1985 at Maioro Road, Otaua, near Waiuku, the Austin Healey Club Hill Climb.
I see a mention in Trevors Book that ;
" The following events were entered after the car had returned early in 1985 to where it began its second life as a special, .. "

It mentions
" Classic Car Race Meeting,Whenuapai Airfield "
" Two hillclimb events "

The photo would have been at one of the two hillclimbs

...

Attachment 67384

The late Ralph Watson stands as the only engineer, let alone individual, to have designed a truly successful rotary valve internal combustion engine. To have also produced, evaluated and tested his technically novel design, renders him absolutely unique within history.

The BSA special is representative of this achievement and as such remains a priceless exhibit.

I have endeavoured to arrange without success, an update and correction in respect of the entry covering the rotary valve, which appears in “Wikipedia” the free online encyclopaedia. I see it as more than unfortunate that the names the of the unsuccessful remain specifically recorded, whereas our Kiwi, Ralph Watson, as the true inventor, becomes entirely overlooked.

It would appear that some form of membership in respect of Wikipedia is required. PLEASE, does any member here have the facility and or online skills called for, in order to conclude what must constitute a very worthwhile project ?

The Northern Sports Car Club celebrations held on Saturday, sadly bring to mind my very much long lost friend Ralph Watson, who passed away 23/08/06.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Trevor Sheffield

It would appear that some form of membership in respect of Wikipedia is required. PLEASE, does any member here have the facility and or online skills called for, in order to conclude what must constitute a very worthwhile project ?

---

As a long time contributor (and financial supporter) of Wikipedia, I think that all that is required initially is to sign up, then in.

Over recent times however, they have deleted a lot of stuff as it hasn't been verified, though quite how that works, I really don't know.

You need to read their requirements for contributions as 'opinions' are not allowed.

Less than 2% of Wikipedia users actually contribute financially.

1983
Attachment 73120

2021 - wider wheels/tyres?
Attachment 73121

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Trevor Sheffield

The Northern Sports Car Club celebrations held on Saturday, sadly bring to mind my very much long lost friend Ralph Watson, who passed away 23/08/06.

---

Trevor,
NSCC Reunion.
A lot of nostalgia at the NSCC Reunion, and I met up with a few guys that you knew back in the 1950's and later.
They included, Don Tilsley, John Windleburn, Allan Woolf, Rob Williams..

Did you get there ?. If you did I missed catching up, as happened with a few others.

Ardmore - but what event and when ??
I also need to pick your brains, as Don Tilsley has given me an typewritten sheet from an Ardmore meeting which includes the list of entrants, their cars and the races entered.
It would be the sheet produced by the Club Organisers - as is not a " Programme " type of document - just a double page produced on a Gestetner or similar device.

Among the entrants;
You were Car #77 in an A.C. V8,
- John Windleburn in his Austin A35 Race #88
- Allan Woolf was in his Ford 8 - Race #90
and your very good friend Ralph Watson had the Lycoming Special at the event with R [ Bob ] Gibbons driving ; Car #36.
There is mention of the Feature race being the " Ardmore 50 ". The Cars for this event competed in two Heats,Race 4 and 12 to get the top 24 qualifiers for the Race - Event 16.
In the heats Ralph Watson was shown as the entrant not sure if driving. from your own book would appear to be Bob Gibbons.

From other details I am picking the event was from around 1958 - 59 as Graham Pierce has the ex Ross Jensen Austin Healey 100 S Car #71 and George Lawton his Austin Healey - a 100 Six Car Car #59 . George went to Europe with Denny Hulme who was in an MG car #58.

In your book " Ralph Watson - Special Engineer " I see in the Lycoming Special Competition Record an event.
" 01/03/58 Ardmore 50 Mile Race. Driver R Gibbons, Placed fourth. Best Lap 1 min, 31.6 secs ".

Could it be this 1st March 1958 event. Presumably organised by either NSCC or ACC ?
It is not the Grand Prix as only NZ Drivers are listed with Bruce Mclaren in a Cooper 1750 Race #47.

Your book - my very much used reference one.

Attachment 73129

Would be interested to know.
The document is very flimsy so have been unable to scan it yet.


Cheers

Roger

Roger,

I attended the NSSC 50th event and talked with those you mention, with the exception of Don Tilsley. Unfortunately I had no way of locating you and was disappointed that you did not find me. I was sitting with my wife at a table quite close to Allan Woolf.

The event you detail I am sure, is in fact that which you note is covered in my book. This was about the time when I was Secretary of the NSCC and very much remember the club's very erratic Gestetner. LOL However, the event was quite an extensive undertaking and I can not surely confirm that it was in total a NSCC effort. If confirmation is important, I could hopefully dig through my records.

I am currently seriously considering another printing of "Ralph Watson Special Engineer," but am apprehensive as to sales covering the significant cost. It is difficult to estimate the number of new readers who are out there, given that some sixteen years have elapsed since it was first printed. I would appreciate your thoughts.

Three cheers, Trevor.

The Ardmore 50 race on March 1, 1958 was hastily arranged by the NZ Grand Prix Association when the meeting planned for Ohakea was cancelled.

Ralph Watson gone but not forgotten, remembered on the wall of my dining room Attachment 73137Attachment 73138

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Milan Fistonic

The Ardmore 50 race on March 1, 1958 was hastily arranged by the NZ Grand Prix Association when the meeting planned for Ohakea was cancelled.

---

Thanks for that Milan, and Trevor.
I can advise Don the details with confidence.

Trevor,yes sorry we missed each other, I spoke with Colleen and Allan, early in the event and was at the table nearest the entrance when the speeches were on.
Trust you had a good time.
There has been about 80 photos posted from event taken by Geoff Ridder. I have downloaded about 20 of them,must look through them.

Once sorted will put some on the Northern Sports Car Club thread on TRS

Cheers

Roger

Attachment 73139

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Milan Fistonic

The Ardmore 50 race on March 1, 1958 was hastily arranged by the NZ Grand Prix Association when the meeting planned for Ohakea was cancelled.

---

Following on from Trevor and Milan confirming the event I have now got some images - the Entries List which with Milan's comment " was hastily arranged " explains the two sided document - I have an Original, as given to me on Saturday by Don Tilsley.
Have found other references to the event among my various Books and Magazines, including Trevors Sheffield Book on Ralph Watson.
Will put a story on the Northern Sports car Club thread - even though an NZGP event and at Ardmore, rather than create another storyline.

Roger

Image to follow ..

Attachment 73157


Posted before but a “small “ tribute to a great man