Lot 1635 email save

Very Rare James J. Ross 1869 Patent Fly Reel

Sign In to see what this sold for

Very Rare "Ross' Pat Oct12, '69" Marked James J. Ross 1869 Brass Patent Fly Reel. With very few known examples to date, this circa 1869 reel from Buffalo, NY reel maker James J. Ross is truly a rare find. Constructed of four "pillars" that make up the frame, this is the first raised pillar reel patented in the United States, having the frame, or pillars, extend past the round spool. The spool arbor is made up of seven long pins that tie the spool sides together, and provide ventilation for line drying in addition to allowing for a more rapid retrieve on this single action reel. This example has a ball handle with bulbous wooden grasp, and click gear under the handle, though the click spring is missing. An arrow click is fixed to the head plate via a brass pin and rotates with the spool. Measuring 2 3/4" from pillar to pillar, this recessed head plate reel has a curved foot bridge brazed to the foot and foot pillars, and appears to be all original. With a tiny grove cut into the head plate, this number "5" marked reel is in remarkable condition, despite the missing click spring, and would be a welcome addition to the most advanced reel collection.

View Lang's Auction next auction.

Similar lots up for auction