The first gas powered American outboard (1896) was the American. It also had a variable pitch propeller. Only 25 were built.
The first Waterman "Porto" (1908) used a modified Curtis motorcycle engine. Mt.Waternan contracted the Caille brothers (who had a reputation for there fine castings) to cast parts for his improved motor. Caille decided they could build a better outboard, and so they did. There 5 speed Rowboat motor incorporated a variable pitch propeller. Some (around 1915) came with an optional Evinrude magneto. They were also the first to offer an optional auto rewind starter.
early model
later model
