Bakelite Meisslebach

[LEF]

I have been researching a brown bakelite Messelbach, Elyria Ohio bait casting reel with three pillars and antibacklash wire (bar). There is no model number nor model name (i.e, no Symplopart or Symploreel on the side). The reel is 2 3/8 inches in diameter. It does have an embosed C surrounding a M and an I. I think it is a Meisslebach-Catucci (?). I haven't been able to find ieither the trademark or the reel on the internet. Does anyone know what it might be and what it might be worth. Thanks Lee

[Reel Geezer]

Lee: The logo that is on your reel is GIM, which stands for General Industries Manufacturing (Co.). Your reel could be either a MeisselbachTrucast or Meisselbach Arrow, since you say it has an Anti-Backlash bar. These reels are both common, since they sold in the $1 to $2 price range in the late 1930s. Most of the Trucast's have nickel plated brass metal parts, while the Arrow has a steel foot, etc. These reels usually sell in the $5-25 range, but you might want to check eBay for current sale prices. It is difficult to search these reels, because they do not have a model or manufacturer stamped on them.

Incidentally, only Meisselbach reels were made in Elyria. Meisselbach-Catucci reels were only made in Newark, NJ, or Bronson, MI.

[LEF]

Thanks, I appreciate it.
Am trying to post a picture, but to many pixels. I need an 8 year old kid to teach me how to use the "puter"
Thanks again.

[LEF]

After some time on the learning curve, I may have learned how to upload images. If this works, does this look familiar? Thanks Lee

[Reel Geezer]

Yep, it looks like an Arrow to me. But you need to take a magnet to it if you can't see any brass showing to make sure the metal parts are chromed steel and not nickel plated brass.

[orourke]

Phil:

How do reel values compare? Nickel plated brass vs chrome plated steel. Does the value transfer to all reel types or just to Meisselbach's.

Dave "O"

[Reel Geezer]

Dave, I'm not really sure about all reels, but my I usually find the reels made from chrome plated steel to be less expensive originally, and this usually (but not always) translates to a lower price as a collectible. But then again if it was only made for a year or so and is scarce, eventually it will probably be of value to the collector. Hows that for a good indefinite answer?

[orourke]

sounds reasonable to me