Ari 't Hart Rainbow

[LuckyStrike]

I hope this reel isn't too modern to fit into the ORCA forum but it is a recent find and I believe quite interesting.

Somewhere along the way I saw reference to a book on ATH reels but so far not seen one for sale.

Trying to research this 1990's fly reel and possibly get a realistic value before offering it for sale

In 95% condition with only a few teeny handling marks , original leather cases and xtra spool..

Any insight would be very appreciated

Tighjt Lines

Lucky

[Midway Tommy D]

Not to worry, "Old" reel collectors collect newer reels, too, and they also fish, so most any reel is fair game for discussion, especially collectibles.

Sorry but I can't help you with information on your book or value, though.

[john elder]

You are, indeed, a lucky strike, sir! At least on Gary Siemer's sales site, it shows this reel selling for just under $3k. Considering commissions, etc, $2500 plus/minus 200 would be a fair estimate. Member Richard Lodge, I believe, has spent quality time with Ari T Hart reels, so might have other insights, as would several others including Ron Gast and Ed Pritchard. Nice score!

[LuckyStrike]

A big thank you to John and Tommy!

I do very much appreciate your input... This reel is a very unusual find indeed and I am quite surprised to hear of the possible value. Mind you, I had heard of AT Hart reels, possibly seen a few online over the years but never owned one.
It is extremely smooth, has an unreal drag system and reasonable light for its capacity ... currently loaded up with a WF floating 9 and also a 9 sink tip line.

From the tiny bit of research I could find via google, the finish is called OPAL , and though the photos look plain grey, it is rather luminous and very pleasing.

So John, if I were to offer this reel/spool combo at around $2400.00 ?? Might be a fair price?

Tight Lines and thank you both again for your input.


Lucky

[john elder]

Well, askin’ aint gettin’ but it doesn’t seem out of line as a starting point. Keep in mindcthe reel may have sold for less through unseen negotiation but seems unlikely to be less than $2k. Also keep in mind this is a comp of 1! Its all about finding the right buyer.... and maybe not getting too greedy!i

[LuckyStrike]

Well, askin’ aint gettin’ but it doesn’t seem out of line as a starting point. Keep in mindcthe reel may have sold for less through unseen negotiation but seems unlikely to be less than $2k. Also keep in mind this is a comp of 1! Its all about finding the right buyer.... and maybe not getting too greedy!i

Well said John ... The only other reference I saw on this reel was a black one that sold (asking was $2950)

I would certainly entertain offers from anyone interested and possibly make a trade or part trade against Hardy reels, Canadian Reels I need or lures.

Thank you again for your excellent advice and comments

Lucky ...

[john elder]

Woohoo! Way to go, Lucky! That must have sold before you got through hitting the return key!!

[Richard Lodge]

Very nice Ari 't Hart reel. I like John's assessment: "Askin' ain't gettin'." ATH reels are collected by what I think is a very small group of people who love his work for the unique designs, the fantastic machining and the fact that he's as much of a designer as a reelmaker, if you get my drift. Heck, the guy made and marketed a "grease watch" - a completely useless bit of bling, if you ask me (but you didn't really ask me, did you?) - that sells for hundreds of bucks on that auction site, the name of which escapes me now. I've owned a handful of ATH reel, including the one like that which is in the permanent collection of MOMA in NYC (a sale I might regret til I die, by the way). They're fun to fish, but it scared the heck out of me to fish them for fear I would scratch them and somehow bespoil said reel. So I sold them all. Ah, but that MOMA-style reel, that one still owns a piece o' my heart, even if I don't own the reel.
Good luck with this one. If it doesn't sell, you can still (gasp ) fish with it.

[LuckyStrike]

Just wanted to thank everyone once again for their assistance and comments... The reel is sold pending payment and there was quite a bit of interest in it from others.

Its very cool.. Just wish I could have kept it myself, but too many other areas that keep me scratching!

Tight Lines

Lucky

PS... I also joined ORCA this week but problems with my member name so hopefully it can be sorted out! I look forward to being a contributor when I am able!

[sdlehr]

Here's a clue re: that book you mentioned

[LuckyStrike]

Here's a clue re: that book you mentioned

Thank you very much! Now I know the name of the book ... This reel company is a tough one to research!

Tight Lines

Lucky