I have just picked up this reel and assumed from the photos that it was a fly reel but, in fact, it is a very well built (Rapidex-size) centrepin. Investigations reveal it was manufactured by Grice &Young, it spins fabulously well, and has a very solid ratchet.
If anyone can add anything beyond the threads below I’d be very interested, including value as I already have too many of this sized reel (although I may end up selling something else to bring this one into service).
Oh, don`t sell it....you will find that it is a bit heavier than similar sized reels and counter balances a top heavy rod most marvellously. Mine spins wonderfully, too. These were built to last!
Nice find Phil. That’s in far better condition than either of mine. As Troutbeck says, very useful on a top heavy rod ….. lovely on my Chapman Hunter, with its hollow built butt and middle but solid tip. Also, the slightly larger than usual foot is useful on some of my rods that have large reel bands (or ones that have grown large as a result of thinning sanded cork!) - they are great on my Super Wizard!
The only thing I think that I’ve changed since those 2 posts is that I have them with the line coming off the top as the ratchet strength was clearly intended for right hand wind and I use them left hand. Bullet proof even by the impressive standards of G&Y.
Don’t sell, enjoy!
Phil
From "... the wilds of the Wirral, whose wayward people both God and good men have quite given up on ...".
Also one of the first reels they made, certainly they made one in1947, but this one looks to be the same vintage as the Avon Crown Avon Royal, ie early fifties.
Troutbeck
