Hi,
Trying to post here, hoping magic history specialists can help.
I read a story about young Slydini discarding the key ring in a new set he just bought, thinking that it was broken.
From there he would develop a routine without a key ring.
I'm wondering in there is any truth in this story, or does this belong to the legend ?
Thanks,

I heard the same story, trying to remember where I heard it. Maybe Bill and Kevin Wisch on here, who have extensive history with Slydini and are very generous with their information, know more about this.

I asked Kevin Wisch, who asked his father.
Here's his answer :

“Slydini started off his ring routine without the key ring. Then, he adds the key ring back in. I have a Slydini Legacy entry that discusses Slydini’s handling of the rings in-depth that I will post on my blog in the future. That said, I am not aware of a story of Slydini believing the ring was “broken”- he was always very aware of the purpose of the key ring and thought he would fool magicians by not using it to begin his routine. Thus, it was done on purpose and with thought behind it. Not because Slydini thought the ring was broken. So, I believe that the background story is merely a legend; but the key less opening to his ring routine was a wonderful creation of Slydini’s. Hope that helps. -Bill”

Thank you for the info !