The drag and freespool on this reel function like the "Micro-Adjust" drag which was an upgrade you could get for the Shakespeare Miller Autocrat Reels. The reel seat has a unique double lock-down operation to make the reel secure to the rod. The reel is in used condition, see accompanying photos. Mechanically the reel turns fine but the anti-reverse and free-spool operation are not functioning properly and need to be looked at.
Shakespeare only sold the Miller Autocrat reels to the public in the 4/0 and 6/0 sizes. To date, only three other large 6 inch diameter reels have been found and those reels were made for Mr. Shakespeare to take shark fishing in South Africa. The other three large 6 inch diameter reels are labeled "Shakespeare Miller" reels. This is the earliest reel of the four and Ralph Miller, the inventor's, personal reel. I have included pictures from the Shakespeare brochure that show Miller and tell the history.
This reel is a wonderful piece of both Shakespeare and big game fishing history.
Priced reasonably, please contact me if you have interest.
