Anyway it was indeed one of the hand engraved versions and though I have chosen not to declare the number in this post I have included a few photographs for my angling brothers to see the reel:
![Image](http://i44.tinypic.com/mjtp8y.jpg)
Brass single side plate, chrome lettering in very good condition - set up for right hand wind
![Image](http://i41.tinypic.com/bgbcph.jpg)
Right hand wind - note the chrome nut on both sides. Black crinkle paint finish generally very good (most paint loss evident on the handle which I understand was an issue with the plain black paint)
![Image](http://i44.tinypic.com/hst3cn.jpg)
Front view showing the lettering on the spool tensioner "THE AMBIDEX CASTING REEL" - bail arm a little pitted. The line drum bears the Allcocks SA 24 part number and the JWY 170 part number too.
![Image](http://i40.tinypic.com/sv0tva.jpg)
A shot from the reels underside shows the only real paint loss from the crinkle finish
All in all a lovely little reel. Hand made, hand engraved inside on the side cover and on the reel body. I have not checked the flyer or the gear wheel but see no reason why the numbers would not be there. According to Rupe's book - reasonable to assume that this reel was made before 25th November 1946.