Pacific Systems Homes “Waikiki” Steam-nose
Pacific Systems Homes “Waikiki” Steam-nose
Pacific System Homes were the first company to manufacture surfboards commercially.The board factory was started in 1908 by the Buddy family. They built planks and hollow surfboards. Their most well known model was the Swastika model, which was named after the symbol that represents harmony and good luck in many cultures.However, after the rise of Nazi Germany the board name was changed to Waikiki Surfboards.
*Board and photo from the collection of John Mazza
Description: Pacific Systems Homes
“Waikiki” Steam-nose
Size/Dimensions: 5’11″
Year: 1946
” This was one of the thin, early small
surfboards, made for Waikiki by Pacific
Systems Homes. Called “Steam-nose”,
due to the process used to get the nose
bend in this all wood surfboard. The
nose was saw cut 18” from the nose and a
piece glued in and steam heated to allow
for the nose rocker to be bent into the
board. Redwood and pine construction
with shellac finish. Strong “Waikiki” logo
and the obvious name of the previous
owner carved in the nose. “
