Interesting marks on F VOM HOFE & SON Ball handle

[Paul M]

This is an F VOM HOFE & SON ball handle reel that appeared in cyberspace. The owner is wondering what he has. The detail that caught my attention is the way the foot crossbar is marked with 2 arched marks. I have only ever seen 2 other reels marked with this name but they both had the maker mark on the faceplate. Is this a known mark and does it mean anything in terms of putting a collector value on the reel? (It is understood that the foot alteration doesn't help but I think this must be a rare reel).




Pictures shared with permission

[Steve]

Stamping maker names on reel feet was probably a passing fad. These two guys were doing it before the VH's arrived in the U.S. Maybe if you forget to stamp a headcap, you mark the foot instead.

[Paul M]

Thanks, Steve.

[Nick in NY]

Hi Paul, That's a 1st with the large stamp but I have seen Conroy stamped foot as well as Hawk/Oglvey in the same location as yours. Like Steve posted, they are out there. Tight lines Nick in NY