Explore Zeke Owen's Impact on Tattooing and Machine Legacy
· By Aloha Tattoo
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[START A CONSULTATION](/contact) Blog Layout Zeke Owen, a legendary figure in traditional American tattooing, holds a revered place in the history of the craft, particularly for his close relationship with Sailor Jerry (Norman Collins), one of the most iconic tattoo artists of all time. Zeke Owen, known for his masterful work and dedication to the art, frequently traveled to Honolulu to tattoo, where he formed a strong bond with Sailor Jerry, a pioneer of Traditional American tattooing. Jerry’s shop on Hotel Street was a hub for tattoo innovation, and Zeke often recounted the awe he felt being in the presence of such greatness, surrounded by walls adorned with Sailor Jerry’s immaculate flash designs. Their mutual respect for each other extended beyond artistry; they also shared deep technical knowledge, trading insights on tattoo machines, which were crucial tools for their work. Sailor Jerry’s machines, especially the Sailor Jerry Streamliners, became iconic for their reliability and