Vintage Victorian 3” Brass & Ebonite Fly Fishing Reel Antique Trout Winch c1900

A scarce early English brass and ebonite trout fly reel dating to approximately 1890–1910. A very attractive untouched example with heavy brass construction, ebonite spool, ivorine handle and removable face plate. The reel measures approximately 3 inches in diameter and retains a lovely aged patina throughout. The reel appears complete apart from the loose retaining screw shown in the photographs. Spins freely with a good solid feel. An ideal display, collection or light use piece for the antique tackle collector. Condition: Good antique condition with age-related wear, scratches and patina throughout. One retaining screw is loose as shown. No visible maker’s markings. Please study photographs carefully as they form part of the description. Approximate size: Diameter: 3” Material: Brass and ebonite Period: c1900 A genuine early antique fly fishing reel with great character.TOTAL Weight 284gThis appears to be an early unnamed English brass and ebonite fly reel / winch dating from around 1890–1910. The construction, heavy brass plates, ebonite spool core, ivory-style handle and simple check mechanism suggest a small maker or trade-made reel from Redditch or Birmingham rather than Hardy. It has similarities to early Jardine, Heaton and Bernard-style reels, but I cannot confidently attribute it to a maker because there are no visible stamps or maker’s marks. The perforated inner plate and exposed brass foot are typical of late Victorian / Edwardian trout fly reels. Comparable unnamed brass reels generally retail between £70–£150 depending on originality and condition.   Your reel has: good untouched aged patina original ivory/ivorine handle original brass foot removable face plate honest wear consistent