BBamboo wrote:Its always better if you can see the reel and give it a once over before you part with the money obviously.
But if evilbay is the only option ask the relevant questions and if you dont get an answer or its less than satisfactory walk away.
Regardless of what some say speedia reels are not rare and every week there is from 3 to 10 for sale. One thing I would totally avoid is repainted reels if a reel is repainted its a sign it was in poor condition.
Hmm, sorry but I have to respectfully disagree here. A painted reel does not necessarily mean a poor condition reel. Sometimes an owner just wishes to tart up the reel. I've bought about 3 Speedias (out of something like 20 or so narrow, wide and de-luxe models) that were repainted by a previous owner. I think this put off other buyers, not me though. They all turned out to be lovely reels. Conversely I bought one that was very original looking, hardly any paint missing and really looked nice. It wobbles like a Chivers jelly on a plate
One day I'll get around to sending it off to Garry Mills for a new spindle.
So, what to ask? If there is only one photograph ask for more, lots more. Ask for photographs with the spool removed so you can see that the ratchet is all in place. It's easy to make a new pawl but a spring is a different matter. A lot of people say that it doesn't matter how long a pin will spin for.. Well, yes and no. If it is adjusted properly a Speedia should spin for anything from around a minute to up to 3 minutes. Yes, I know people who have a Speedia that just spins and spins. My best goes for around a minute and a half. If the reel you are thinking of buying only spins for a few seconds you have two options. One, walk away. The other try using it as a bargaining chip. It may only need a clean, a drop of oil and the grub screw setting up properly. Ask if there is any perceptible wobble from the reel on a light spin. Again, this might just be a slight adjustment job but it might also mean a worn spindle/bush. This can be repaired but you are probably looking at around £40 to £50 so factor this in when you buy.
Finally, what should you expect to pay? As little as possible is my motto
Seriously though, you are probably looking at anything from around £45 up to £100 for a wide drum on eBay. At the higher end I would be expecting a Speedia de-luxe with the three position ratchet. Many sellers do not advertise the fact that they have a de-luxe model because they do not realise it. I've picked up about 4 like this simply because I studied the photographs. The de-luxe is rather desirable because it is useful to use on the river with the adjustable ratchet being able to combat strong flows (sometimes).
Good luck with the searching
It really pays to spend a lot of time looking at listings and working out whos who in the zoo.
