B59-541 ADJUSTABLE SOLE PLANE. Williams Patent Type. At first glance, this appears to be an example of the very rare "universal plane" patented in 1864 by Stephen Williams of Philadelphia, with a body comprised of sliding wooden segments clamped together by a brass band. However, on closer examination there are several differences. All of the examples of the Williams patent we have seen are marked on the brass band; this one lacks that mark but has "V. Dahl Maker" stamped on the toe, a name we have been unable to identify. The locking screw is slotted instead of a thumbscrew. Unlike the Williams patent, there are only six sliding plates, and a larger and more elaborate center section with pieces of boxwood dovetailed into the sole on either side of the throat. The resemblance seems to be too striking to be coincidental, but was this a copy or forerunner of the Williams patent? It could be an early prototype, but then why is it marked Dahl rather than Williams? A mystery, and a very intriguing and attractive plane. Some overall wear but nothing major; Butcher cutter. Good+ 3000-6000