We received these images from one of our readers. He wrote:“All the pieces seem to be made of the same metal. [same color] The handle almost looks like it’s from a piece of antler. It has a light, fixed, click that is the same in each direction. There are no names or lettering stamped anywhere.” Any thoughts would be appreciated.
The Chronicler
Really hard to determine exactly who made the reel… but a couple points… the handle is more likely horn rather than antler due to the longitudinal striations. There also does not appear to be any pith as one finds in most antler. (I have made countless numbers of reel handles from antler, horn, ivory, and wood)
The unbalanced handle speaks to either early or inexpensive… The protective rim rather than raised pillar is arguably cheaper, but the hammered rivets rather than screws is not a great sign either. It would have to have some fancy provinance IMO to be worth much…
If you get no answers here, you may want to try this site: http://fiberglassflyrodders.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=4
There are some experts on classic reels, specifically Bulldog1935.
A couple factors not yet mentioned.
The reel is very small: 2 1/4 in. diam by 1 inch face width.
Also it is really old. Owned by my wifes grand uncle who passed away before WW I.
It is over 100 years old.
Hi smij , I’m not good at computer use and wouldn’t know how to get my pics and info to your referenced experts.
Could you help me?
I’m not much of an expert, however, I believe this is not a fly reel but an old tournament casting reel intended for use in casting competitions. There are 2 types of competitions, distance and accuracy. Based on the size and construction I think this is an old reel used in casting accuracy competitions with a casting rod. If you do a Google search for tournament casting reels you will find some similar pictures.
Just my 2 cents worth and I’m not sure you didn’t over-pay!
Is this it? There are many more reel pictures on this site.
http://www.antiquereels.com/displays/J.F._B.F._Meek_extra_small_brass_reel_page_16.htm
Possibly, and probably, built by the Reuben Heaton Co.
See this discussion of the reel on FFR… http://fiberglassflyrodders.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=40986
The best info to date is that this is an imported but unnamed British made “knock-off” of a
typical fly reel of the late 1890 s.
