The first version of this remarkable illusion was invented by Okito c. 1904 (Dr Albo Vol 1, pg 103). Among others, variations have also been built by Thayer, National Magic Company, Henry Bohlen and Town House Magic (Deluxe Visible Block Penetration c. 1946), Richard Gerlitz, Mel Babcock, Magic Wagon, Mikame Craft, and Nielsen Magic. It is performed by Dr. Albo in the Ultimate Okito.
However, not all Visible Block Penetrations use the same Okito method. The key tell tale sign in performance is “slow-motion”: can the penetration be done slowly and visibly? If it can then it is most likely based on the same method. If it is visible but almost instant it is probably not using the same method.
The version featured here was designed and built by Bud West and sold by Abbott’s and does not use the Okito method. However the performance of the effect is different from other similar effects such as the Harries Super De Luxe Penetration and if you are familiar with those versions it is important to study the effect and read the instructions because at first it seems a little awkward. But once you understand the different approach it becomes easy to perform and is a very convincing illusion.
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