Rare Circa 1899 1st Version Meek #44 Trout Reel

One Of The Finest Trout Reels Ever Produced And The Only Fly Reel To Carry The Famous Meek Family Name Is This Rare Circa 1899 First Version Model #44 Trout Reel. Thought to have been introduced late in 1899, this all German silver, single action 2 1/4" diameter, 1" wide spool reel has the earliest "flat back", with features that include oversized round screw heads - which show little to no use at all - with V cuts and finely beaded click switch. The counterbalanced handle is half straight and half curved, with turned ivory grasp and beaded counter balance. The side plates are grooved and feature a fine band of knurling in the center. Marked on the rear plate "B.F. Meek & Sons. Louisville, KY - No. 44". The rear "Stub's steel" pivot is missing the screw on cap and there is a slight indent on one end of the serial #2361 marked foot. A beautiful reel in all original uncleaned condition, seldom offered for sale.