Medalist Reel, Oh Really?

[oldsaltnfla]

I just saw a fly reel on the bay that is listed as a "red and black Medalist 1494 fly reel." Do any of you collectors who know more about fly reels than I do tell me if such a red and black reel was ever made? To me, it looks like a black Medalist spool in a maroon South Bend Finalist frame. Odd.
Joe

[blf]

1st started using them in 1956. i was 12 yrs old. for t. casting.
never saw a red 1. after moving to Ohio in 79 had a tour of the factory. they were very nice as i was a kid when i started. they sponsered when ever i needed a reel.
asked why they never made any in color. 1 of the family was there.. said we didn't need to. distinc make and color set them apart. still have 4-5 still all black

cheer's
b.l.f.

[Eric J]

It looks like a South Bend Finalist frame.

[desertangler]

It was painted and you could see the Medalist info stamped on the frame.

George

[desertangler]

OK, I saw it again and didn't see the markings on the frame, so my mistake. Yes, probably Finalist frame as others suspect.

George