The Harris Reel

Patented in 1903, issued number 739784 on Sept. 22, this invention of William Harris and Henry Case of Gloversville, NY was sold to anglers minus a rod, having a friction fit tube at the "nose" that could be configured for different size rod ferrules. Measuring 12" from the rubber butt cap to the end of the extension tube, this plated brass reel has working click and drag switches, a tiny folding handle with grasp that "hides" in the tubular body when not in use. Condition is about VG with some scattered pitting to the spool arbor and some plating rubs here and there, and a replaced rubber cap on the butt. A great reel now more than 100 years old. A photo of this particular reel appears on pages 199 & 261 of Antique Fishing Reels - 2nd Edition by Steve Vernon.