I'm sure everyone is exceptionally careful about how they handle their HLs so as not to damage the piece, especially the vulnerable ventilator ball (VVB). It seems the VVB is the first thing to leave the piece if it is accidently struck. Oh how many of us have seen the VVB missing at dealers with HL petting zoos. You know what I mean...within reach of small children and others who have no idea how delicate these pieces can be.

This brings me to my question: Are the VVB still cast in the molds with the rest of the piece? It seems the new ones are much thinner at their base and I'm beginning to wonder if they are pewter or whatever, and inserted into the HL after it comes out of the mold. I dare not attempt to investigate on one of my own. What's the word from the people in the know? Can we breathe easy because these VVBs are now actually ESVBs (extra strong ventilator balls)?

Bob

In the guide by Jim Rutherford he explains how at one point a ball bearing was used for the VVB for ease of mold release and shape in creating one of the mold steps to the final production mold. I wonder if they have carried this farther or is it just better molding . I would have to say better molding with the greater level of detail in the recent lights .

Lonnie