One of the problems with reel collecting is that sometimes you like a reel so much that you can justify buying the same reel again because it is slightly different than the one you already have. I know a person that once told me about a collector that bought a large expensive reel that was identical to the one he already had. And when asked why he bought the same reel again, he said "It has a different serial number." Well, this may be an extreme, but it emphasizes my point. I had a B.F. Meek & Sons No. 11 and when given the opportunity to buy a left hand version, of course I had to buy it. And then, when given the opportunity to buy one with a front plate sliding drag button rather than the rim mounted thumb wheel, of course I had to buy it. Oh well, here's hoping I get more opportunities to buy more of the same reel again. I'm sure I can find some difference in the reel that would justify it.
Below are photos of the three reels I've described above. As a bit of background information, the B.F. Meek & Sons No.11 was introduced in their 1901 catalog along with their other reels. After 1905, I could not find the B.F. Meek & Sons hard rubber and German silver reels in catalogs or advertised. If someone has a later catalog or ad of one, please let me know.
B.F. Meek & Sons 1901 Catalog page excerpt B.F. Meek & Sons No. 11 Reels
Last edited by RonG on Wed Sep 16, 2020 4:51 am, edited 1 time in total.
I am verklempt (vaclempt for you SNL fans). Missed out on a few of the rubber Meeks over the years, but this is great inspiration. Thanks for sharing. PM me when you are in financial distress.
Matt Wickham
Collector of Casting Weights, KY Reels and KY Tackle
Ron, awsome set of reels. I have the same problem, I see a variation and have to have it. I want to thank you again for helping me find the SB 1131 with the pattented tail plate it is the earliest 1131 variation I have.
Thanks Scott
Beautiful set Ron! When you decide to part with "lefty", let me know. Thanks for sharing!!!! After another look , I see that all three counter balances are different also. I like em!
