Described as an "innovative genius," William Mills attracted attention with his Duplex club. The Double face allowed it to serve as a dual-purpose club—able to be used for both right-handed and left-handed shots depending on the situation. 

The British design registration number 413,454 on this club dates to 1904. This William Mills RL1 model Duplex has its original 37 3/8" shaft and leather wrapped grip. The soft aluminum head is in better than average condition.

In October 1903, Golf Illustrated gave the Mills duplex metalwood a glowing review, featuring more than just the dual nature of the clubhead. It raved about the head being perfectly balanced--feeling so comfortable in the player's hand as to grow his confidence. It marveled that the hitting surface provided such loft, like a cleek would, but hit straighter shots than a normal iron or a mashie. The lengthy review concluded with "We have not seen any which is so well adapted for its purpose or which gives such uniform and satisfactory results." Imagine a review like that on a new club coming out today! It would be a must-buy, as metal head wood are well accepted today and were not back then. A very nice club, especially when considering the rarity of a fairway-wood-length duplex club, not just the Mills models.

More information can be found TCA2 V2 p519.