The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

Just arrived this morning is an early Christmas present to myself !!!

This is a 3 1/2 inch "The Hardy No. 2 Wallis Reel," initialled on the back plate "J. D." ... having been made by James Dodds, who worked for the company from 1920 to 1966. The list of 'Hardy Reel Makers Initials' I have seen only lists him as having made Silex reels ... so the Wallis can be added to that information now.

This is the No. 2 Wallis which was a 'budget' version, having a 'telephone' or 'drop' catch ... the No. 1 having a jewel bearing.

Only made between 1932 and 1939, the factory production figures reproduced in "Hardy Brothers. The Masters, The Men, and Their Reels" by John Drewett shows that only 173 of this model were manufactured.

After a light clean-up, light greasing on the ratchet levers, and light gun oil on the pillar ... this lovely reel spins perfectly, a testament to the excellence of Hardy engineering.

A nice addition to the collection Mal
Simple design but very reliable and without a doubt my favourite reel. The No.1 is the first reel to go in the bag if I’m planning a trip to the river.

A lovely reel and I am sure that you have a suitable rod to put it on!

A very nice stocking filler Mal. I love that Hardy check arrangement.

Wal.

Not seen one of those before, very nice indeed sir!
As Wal has pointed out the "check mech" looks to be a very elegant and simple design.

In my opinion, the wallis reel is the best centrepin Hardy ever made, they look great, and always spin so well.

My 4" No1 is my go to trotting reel

Paul F wrote: ↑Thu Nov 26, 2020 5:25 pm In my opinion, the wallis reel is the best centrepin Hardy ever made, they look great, and always spin so well.

My 4" No1 is my go to trotting reel

Couldn't agree more...nothing else comes close.

That’s a beauty Mal.... Happy Christmas!

I love all the variations of the Wallis reels, the Slater made ones - still finding variations - plus the Hardy ones. There are more Hardy ones that I did not know existed. Trying to track down one owned by Wallis with a couple of variations in the construction.

The 3 1/2 inch model is rare and a great acquisition, well done.

Good afternoon,the reel in question would be very simple to make with the material readily available,If I had seen this model a few years ago it would have made a nice project ,Reelmaker.