Hardy Reels and Rod

[Trevor]

[/timg] I have two Hardy reels that I would like some history and values on. One is a Patent Perfect 33/4" and the other is a Silex Major. And a Rod. See pics for more detail. Thanks Trevor

[wrong99]

Welcome. I have no idea on the reels, but there are several Hardy people here that will eventually help you. The rod, with that broken midsection, has little value except for parts.
Mark

[Paul M]

I am no Hardy expert but going by the Turner book I would say the Silex Major is an "early" pre-1928 model given the "turning button regulator". They go for $200-$400 (in the UK and depending on details and condition).

Regarding the Perfect, it looks to be one of the so-called brass face types which are highly desirable but from the pictures I'm not sure if that is a brass face or oxidized "silver bronzing" or lacquer. DO NOT TRY TO CLEAN OR POLISH. If it is a brass-faced model then (A) it would be old eg turn of the century and (B) worth much more than a non brass faced Perfect eg $1000 and up vs $250 and up. The earliest models had a "Rod in Hand" logo. I don't see that on your specimen. That one is worth getting a Hardy specialist to look at more closely if you don't get a certain ID here.

Hopefully you can provide a few more crisp pictures of both reels from front, back and looking into the spool but back up a bit. I want to see the foot, the cover on the regulator. A ruler next to the reel would help too. Also, seeing the mechanisms inside and the craftsman initials may be of interest.

[Paul M]

Trevor, before you commit your rod parts to become tomato stakes, it would be wise to see what it is first. I suppose it is possible to find a replacement mid-section, even if it ends up being a wall hanger. Or perhaps someone needs the parts you have. These rods are usually marked with maker name, model and in the case of Hardy a serial number that can be used to date the rod. Look just above the handle on the bamboo and sometimes you will see information on the butt end of the handle or on the reel locking rings.

Paul M

[Trevor]

Thanks Mark

[Trevor]

Hi Paul, Thanks I will try and post more pics and the info on the rod.

[Jim Schottenham]

Trevor,
A word of caution when taking the Perfect apart for photos. First, the spool screw will be "backward", and won't follow the standard "righty tighty" - lefty loosey", to unscrew, you'll need to turn it clockwise.
Then, be sure to hold the reel with the handle side up, so when you unscrew the winding plate (that will be a standard counter clockwise to unwind it) the ball bearings won't spill onto the floor. In the early reels, Hardy had an "open race" that didn't hold the ball bearings in place. Your reel may not be that old, but better to be safe than sorry. Finding those tiny ball bearings and getting them all back in place can be a nightmare!!!