Joe, this is an incredible piece of history. When I watched Willie in the early 80s in those legends tournaments (82-Harrahs, 83-Claridge, both Atlantic City), he carried his Balabushka in one of his Palmer cases. I suspect he had this case in backup all the time, with other shafts, just in case he needed it.
Footnote for the history buffs. There was an 84 tournament also. It was Lake Kiamiesha, NY. Willie did not play, due to an operation on his ear. But he was there, watching. I suspect he had his cue with him, probably in the Palmer case, but I also suspect he had this case with him as well.
Great post.
WW