Sounds exactly like a Moonraker vertical in terms of construction and performance that I bought last year! VSWR not less than 2:1 no matter what and a gap where the adjustable element slides. I consigned it to the 'waste of space' box and substituted a Trident half wave from Nevada - no problems - fully enclosed, excellent match and it's come through the winter's gales and rain all OK.

Callsign G3WXC

I had one of these antenna some time ago and found exactly the same problem.
I complained to W & S and got a refund.
They confirmed that the Watson is infact made by MoonRaker, so that explains a lot in it own right !!

Send it back from where it came from, get a refund.
I use a Chelcom 1/2 wave vert and it is well made and less that 1.4 from 69 to just under 72 mhz.
It has survived over the last 2 years on the mast in all winds and weathers without apparent problem.

Regards,
Tony.

Callsign G4CJZ