Early Brass Reel "KARR MAKER" Any information?

[drexelantiques]

http://www.drexelantiques.com/images/karrreela.jpg

http://www.drexelantiques.com/images/karrreelb.jpg

http://www.drexelantiques.com/images/karrreelc.jpg

http://www.drexelantiques.com/images/karrreeld.jpg

Early brass fishing reel. Marked on the handle side, "KARR MAKER" 2-1 gear ratio, with a stop or drag on the handle side. Sideplates are 3 1/2 inches, reel is 3 inches wide. Foot is 4 inches. Well made, early reel. My thinking is that it would date from the 1840-1880 era. Any information on this maker? Location? Any idea of the exact age, or value, of the reel?

Thank you for your help.

[mortepa]

Once had a reel stamped with the same markings years ago. The reel resembled yours, except it didn't have the same style drag slider, the handle was a similar but larger S-shaped style, and it was solid German silver.

Unfortunately, I never took photos and I never researched it before selling it. So, at least you know there is at least one other by this maker.

Let us know what you find. Nice reel!
- Paul

[Steve K]

I did find on page 12 of A. J. Campbell's "Classic & Antique Fly-Fishing Tackle that a New York rod maker named George Karr along with J B Crook were entering into the rod making business at the same time as bigger houses like Conroy, Bate and Clerk.
Possible connection?
Steve K.

[Steve K]

I also just found mention of the same George Karr, rod maker, doing business in 1859 on Grand Street, (NY?)( This came from Albert Munger's " Old Fishing Tackle and Tales".
Steve K

[drexelantiques]

Steve, thanks, I found the same information in both books, I would bet there is a connection, mainly because the area and timeline are about right for the reel.

I wish the previous owner hadn't polished the reel, but otherwise it is in good shape. It operates incredibly smoothly.