2007-08-15

Historical & Classical Rods

From the collection of Jan Nystrom

 


 

EUROPEAN MADE CANE RODS

 

Walter Brunner, Traun Special, 7,7', #5-6, 2 pieces/2tip. Superfine all cork grip with dark blued cap and ring. Black wraps. Superb varnish and hardware. Built by one of the best known craftmen in Europe. From his workshop in Steyr, Austria near river Traun he has built outstanding bamboo rods for more than 30 years. The highest priced rods from a living legend and this rod is from the famous "Wildwasser" family of rods. An extraordinary casting machine especially in windy weather. Unfortunately master craftman Walter Brunner has stopped building rods because of his age.  

Mint condition

 

Walter Brunner,Heibesen, 6'2½"(1.90m), #5-6, 3 pieces/1tip. Black alloy cap & ring over full cork reel seat, black wraps, hook keeper, mildrum type stripper, snake guides, mildrum type top, turned wood ferrule plugs, blued ferrules with red witness marks. All original and full length. Marked “Brunner – Austria, Type H.R. Heibesen, 1.90m – 80g, #5-6. Beautiful, powerful rod. Superb unfished condition..Original bag and leather capped black tube complete with original label and tag with his recommendation for a WF5 line. Sadly Mr Brunner is no longer with us - this rod shows the make date of 12/83 - December 1983.

Mint condition

 

Hardy Palakona the "Koh-i-Nor", 8.9', #7, 5.2 oz(148g), 2 pieces/1 tip. A H-serial rod #72758, built 1966. All cork Wells grip and reel seat with sliding N/S ring and butt cap. Agate stripping guide and tip top. Dark red windings on straw colored cane, blued ferrules. H-serial # 72758. Wrap redone on male ferrule. Originally designed for tournament casting this design provides a strong, ligth, stiff actioned dry fly rod suitable for big trout. One of the most saught after rods from Hardy. Nice varnish.

With exception in Exellent condition

 

Hardy Palakona ATarantino@, 8ft, 2 pieces/2 tips.  Jon E. Taratino No.1 model, marked "N.E. 9866 Alnwick, England", built 1982, in its original cloth compart-mentalized cover. This rod was a collaboration between John Tarantino, the American flycasting champion of his day, and Hardy's the legendary English manufacturer. The two tips are marked Nos. 1 and 2 respectively and are factory made 2 inch shorter than the butt. There are no apparent flaws anywhere on the rod. There are no ferrule plugs. Rod comes with the original Hardy aluminum tube. 

Mint condition

 

Hardy Palakona the AMarvel@, 72, #4, 2.8 oz(80g), 3 pieces/2 tips. A H-Serial rod # 22146, built 1959, marked on the sliding ring. All cork superfine grip and reel seat with sliding N/S ring and butt cap. N/S ferrules and agate stripper. Straw colored cane with mustard windings. Everything is here, and the rod is complete, including the original aluminum tube, and cloth bag with label and hang tags! All guides and wraps are in fine shape. Serial number on rod matches that on the bag. I would estimate that it was made in the early 1940's (hang tag mentions the "Late King George V", and the Prince of Wales, with the dates 1931‑1936). The rod has been used, but very lightly. Case shows evidence of handling, with wear to decal and exterior. The cloth bag is in excellent condition, with the original hang tags intact and in superb shape. The rod itself is extremely clean, with only minor evidence of wear to the end of the aluminum butt cap. Everything is just beautiful, making this a magnificent example of a "Marvel‑ous" rod.  

Excellent+ condition

 

Hardy Palakona the "Marvel", 72', #4, 3 oz(86g), 3 pieces/1 tip, built 1971. All cork superfine grip and reel seat with sliding N/S ring and butt cap. N/S ferrules and agate stripper. Straw colored cane with green windings and orange tippings. Arguably one of Hardy=s Best Ever rod models. A full working , lightweight rod of moderate length ideally made for delicately placement of #20 dry flies on the chalkstream. Production discontinued 1970 and since then it is one of the most saught after midge rods from Hardy.  

Mint condition

 

Hardy Palakona AFairchild@, 8', 3 pieces/2 tips, 3.8 oz(108g). Cigar shaped all cork handle and reel seat with very nice, fancy hardware. Number signed on rod is #24693 and on end cap #E5117. built 1939. Correct bag and tube. Everything is there. Tube has small dent. Handle has a couple of hook marks. Other than that, the finish on this rod is bright, shiny and very, very near mint. Not many Hardy=s around from 1940 in this condition

Excellent+ condition

 

Hardy Palakona AFairchild@, 92=, 3 pieces/2 tips, 5 oz. Cigar shaped all cork handle and reel seat with very nice, fancy hardware. Number signed on rod is #24693 and on end cap #17974 E. built 1930. Correct bag and tube  Handle section is 39 inches long, center section is 39 inches long, both tip sections  are 34 7/8 inches.and has a missing eye on the end. All sections are nice and straight. The handle shows some use and a few hook marks. All eyes are good and the bamboo is fine with no chips or cracks. This rod does need to be cleaned. Handle is marked "17974 E Made by Hardy Bros. LTD Alnwick England@. Comes with a cloth rod bag and the Aluminum Tube and the aluminum cloth tube cover. Tube has no cap and a pretty good dent near the top, but is useable and needs to be cleaned. 

Good condition

 

Hardy Palakona APhantom@, 8', #5, 2 pieces/1 tip, 32 oz(105g). Built 1968. Super-light, accurate dry fly action with shaped solid cork handle and S/B reel seat. Agate tip. Black wraps tipped scarlet. Everything on this rod is original. In its original bag but nonoriginale tube.

Mint condition

 

 

 

 

Hardy Palakona ACC de France@, 7', #4-5, 2 pieces/1 tip (made that way), 2.9 oz(84g). The ultimative Hardy Fishing rod.  Serial no. E 1700 built 1925 ‑ the golden age ‑ in excellent condition. The old varnish looks like old varnish, all gold bindings,rings and intermediate bindings 100% OK, straighter than any new splitcane rod, best size, short but usable 7 feet, reel fittings 100% OK. Original bag signed by age. The ultimative Hardy collectors rod in best condition, you can find for this age. Fits 100% to any 2 7/8 ‑ 3 1/8 duplicated Mk II Hardy Perfect, Uniqua, St.George Junior new or old Bougle reels or other crisp vintage flyreels. 

Excellent+ condition

 

Hardy Palakona ACC de France@, 9ft, 2 pieces/1 tip (made that way). From the famous tournament series. Serial number H12190 built 1957. The rod looks very nice. Straight like an arrow. One of the rare Hardy collectors rod in fabulous condition. Original bag? and tube.  

Excellent+ condition

 

Hardy AThe Guinea@, green heart, trout fly rod, 9=, 2 pieces/2 tips.  This unusual rod carries the serial number A11403, thus built 1905. It has the very beautiful distinctive hickory wood handle, and the brass ferrules have the metal loop for sure fastening. This rod is unbelievable good condition and still has both tips full length which is very uncommon for a green heart rod. All of the silk wraps are tight on this two‑tip rod, and in fact the rod has seen very little use. It even comes with both of it=s wooden ferrule stoppers, and the original poplin Hardy bag. 

Excellent+ condition

 

Hardy Old Hickory handle 1897, Early Hardy fly rod hickory and wooden grip. 3pcs. but original tip is shorter. (2nd tip is thereby but must be fitted to rod). THE perfect decoration rod! Rod has butt, middle and 2 tip sections ‑ fitting tip is half lenghth ‑ 2nd non fitting tip has been broken and repaired, but has right length and color, can be fitted fast with a bit sandpaper ‑ butt has 1873 Hardy patent and 36029 serial no. 

Good condition

 

Hardy Palakona AFeatherweight@, 10ft, 2 piece/1 tip, 6.0 oz(171g). Built 1912, originally with one top. This is the rare precursor to the 2 piece AFeatherweight Perfection@ and the 3 piece AGem Featherweight@ rods later built, both 2 oz heavier than the original because of a heavier reel seat. This rod has a shaped beautiful cork grip and a lightweight richly ornamented N/S butt cap and sliding ring over a light colored very well preserved wooden insert. All original and full length. No repaired tops, loose guides or ferrules. Intermediate wraps, Hardy=s ASuction@ joints, agate butt and end rings. Old diagonal sitting guides. Serial no on butt cap says A71297A@, AHardy Bros, Makers Alnwick, England@ and AFMJ@(probably the initials of the first owner). Rod is marked AFeatherweight@, APalakona Regd. No. 246936". Everything is complete with the original canvas bag and the separate bamboo case for the top. The rod shows a very nice patina. A wonderful collectors item. 

VG+ condition

 

Hardy Palakona AFairy@, 10ft, #7-8, 3 pieces/2 tips, 62 oz, These rods were made very light and wonderfully strong, suitable for either dry or wet fly fishing. AScrew Grip@ reel fitting, Hardy=s ASuction@ joints, ABridge@ intermediate guides with agate stripping and end rings. This is a very nice tonkin cane rod. All original and full length. No repaired tops or ferrules but one bridge guide is missing on one of the tips. Marked on butt end C 11090 which makes it a rod made 1921. Gold and red silk wraps and N/S hardware with waterproof ferrules. Bag and tube unmarked. This is a magnificient turn of the century very well cared for rod. 

Excellent condition

 

Pezon et Michele, Fario Club PPP, 8'5", #5-6, 5.3 oz(153g), 2 pieces/1 tip. Hard chrome plated very light uplocking reel seat. Staggered sections. A beautiful bamboo fly rod from the Amboise factory of Pezon et Michel. This rod, a "Ritz Super Parabolic PPP", is one of the best designs by Charles Ritz and is the highest grade made by Pezon et Michel. The bamboo is oven tempered to a medium dark honey color. The wraps are emerald green tipped red with reinforcing wraps at the highest stressed area of each wrap, just as Gary Howells and Winston did on their rods. The Ritz tapered cork handle feels wonderful in the hand and is long enough to permit different grip positions.These Ritz Super Parabolic rods are EASY to cast and will surprise anglers at all levels of casting ability. A rod that will cast dry flies, wets, nymphs, or streamers; this rod really does it all! This is one of this company's best known rods and a remarkeble casting mashine

Mint condition

 

Pezon et Michele, Longcast, 8'7", #6-7, 5.9 oz(168g), 2 pieces/1 tip. Hard chrome plated very light uplocking reel seat.The favorite parabolic action first invented by Chales Ritz. A nice very long casting rod, unfotunately the last cork ring is mouse eaten on one side. Several of the wraps have varnish cracks but the cane and hardware is excellent.  

With exception Very Good condition

 

Pezon et Michele, Nymph, 8'9", #5-6, 4.9 oz(141g), 2 pieces/1 tip. Hard chromed plated screw‑down‑locking seat has a cork spacer. Made 1" shorter than original 8'10". Detachable handle. Tested and approved by the well known river keeper, Frank Sayer from England. An excellent nymph rod with the famous parabolic action. 

Excellent condition

 

Pezon & Michele, Howard Marshall, 8'4", #5-6?, 6 oz(169g), 2 pieces/2 tips. Staggered sections. A beautiful bamboo fly rod from the Amboise factory of Pezon et Michel. This rod, a "Ritz Super Parabolic PPP", still sparkles from its limited fishing use, is one of the best designs by Charles Ritz and is the highest grade made by Pezon et Michel. The bamboo is oven tempered to a medium dark honey color. The wraps are emerald green tipped red with reinforcing wraps at the highest stressed area of each wrap, just as Gary Howells and Winston did on their rods. The Ritz tapered cork handle feels wonderful in the hand and is long enough to permit different grip positions.These Ritz Super Parabolic rods are EASY to cast and will surprise anglers at all levels of casting ability. A rod that will cast dry flies, wets, nymphs, or streamers; this rod really does it all! 

Mint condition

 

Lee Wulff AMidge@, made by Farlow, 6', #4/5, 2 pieces/2 tips, 1 7/8 oz. Ink writing on shaft just ahead of grip reads "Lee Wulff 'Midge' #1782. Armour cane made by FARLOW's in Aberdeen, Scotland."  Teal wraps.  Blued ferrule with number 12 stamped in female ferrule. Blue silks over dark impregnated cane. Double rings on all cork seat. Original purple bag with black/gold lettered label reading "FARLOW's, London, England, est. 1840 with Farlow logo.  Execellent + alum. tube may or may not be original ‑ fits rod.  This rod together with the Orvis Deluxe 62 carry the reputation for having caught Atlantic salmon by Wulff and unknown others. Perfect small stream "brookie" rod. 

Mint condition

 

Pandion custom, 5 strips, 6 3/4', #2-3, 1piece. A well known rod builder from Denmark who specialized in 5 strips rods. This is a very delicate one-piece rod with staggered nodes and the finest tip you might ever have seen.  

Mint condition

 

Stefan Broms Nymf, 82', #3-4, swelled but, 2 pieces/2 tips. All N/S hardware. Stefan Broms is an outstanding Swedish rod builder. This rod is a piece of art. With it's cigarr grip, perfect varnish, beautiful walnut seat and N/S cap and ring this is an absolute stunning rod.

Mint condition

 

Kennet Boström custom, 8'1", #4-5, 2 pieces/2 tips, built 1972. Straw colored cane with brown wraps. All cork grip and seat with cap and ring. Another excellent rod builder from Sweden. This rod is built following the formulas by Garrison.  

Excellent condition


Kennet Boström Nymf, 8'3", #3-5, 2 pices/2 tips, built 1974. All cork grip with 2 rings. Straw colored cane with brown wraps. A beautiful rod with very delicate casting abilities  

Excellent condition

 

Hörgårds Konkuranse, 82=, 2 pieces/1 tip, 5 oz(143g). Serial# 41327. Old Norwegian company made rod. Half Wells cork grip with end cap and two sliding rings in N/S. Badger wraps, some wraps redone and rod not professionally varnished but with good and healthy cane and hardware Very strong action for big Norwegian river trout. 

Good condition

 

Emotion Quadrate, 7.5ft, 2 pieces/1 tip, X oz(g). Serial# xxxxxx. Built by Danny Heus at Keone Rodsmiths in Netherland, a spokesman of the quadrate philosophy thought to him by the great Mike Montagne. The rod has an old -Winston style- ceramic stripper guide, intermediate wraps between the upper 3 tip guides to reduce friction and protect the varnish, a Garrison style grip with a walnut spacer and an uplocking threaded reel seat. The wraps are a pleasing browntone. This series of rods are hollow built and has a crisp/fast action. The rod is more of a rectangular shape, just as the Montagne rods, where the wider sides are where the flexion is. This makes the rod flex in the direction of the cast only. Quadrate flyrods also offer more than twice the density of cane power fibres found in six-strip constructions of the same thickness. A cross-sectional design that is wider than deep in the plane of bending make the rods one of the fasted yet delicate ever built in splicane history with tips that taper down to very fine dimensions. The Finite Element approach to solve the rod design analysis task was calculated using the same software as NASA uses to test objects that will be shot into an orbit around the earth. The Emotion series have an incredible power but are also very delicate in close ranges. A versatile rod which can be used in a lot of situations. It comes with a handmade rod bag and a protective tube.

New

 



 

 

US MADE CANE RODS

 

 

H.L. Leonard Catskill original 1890, 10', 3 pieces/2 tips, 52 oz(160g). From circa 1887‑1905. Complete. 10' 3/2 with original Leonard bag and Leonard tube. This rod is fishable. Beautiful rattan handle, german silver reel seat and red/burgundy signature and intermediate wraps. All pieces full length and straight. A beautiful rod. Lovely patina. Great collector's piece. Museum grade example of Leonard's factory work. Has English snake guides. It's pretty whippy and would probably cast a 4‑5. But.......it's more fun to look at. Rod has Leonard shield "The H.L. Leonard Rod, Leonard & Mills Co. Maker@ on reel seat. Tube has the following information printed (typed on Leonard label); "H. L. Leonard 5 2 OZ. Mills Transpar (E) ‑ .045"; F. CREUSEVANT  Parabolic #2 H.E.H" and an Inspection Signature. Could be one of Leonard’s parabolic experimental rod. A wonderful historical rod. 

Near Mint Condition

 

H.L. Leonard Catskill original 1879, 10', 3 pieces/2 tips, 6 1/4 oz(183g). From circa 1879-1886. Old snake rings. Both tips down 1 inch. Reel seat signed "H.L. Leonard maker W. Mills & Son, N= York,  Sole Agents", which indicates a date of 1879-1886, after Mills bought an interest in Leonard, but before Mills bought the controlling interest. This early Leonard rod is made of beautiful Calcutta cane with a tapered rattan hand grip. Original varnish and no set or bends in the tips. There is a separate wooden holder for the two tips with a threaded brass cap and a heavy canvas bag. 

Good condition

 

H.L. Leonard Catskill original, 10’, 3 pieces/2 tips, 6.6 oz(189g). From circa 1879-1886. This is a very early model with flip ring guides, german reel seat and cork handle. Marking on the reel seat reads "H. L. Leonard, Maker, W. Mills & Son N='York, Sole Agents", which indicates a date of 1879-1886, after Mills bought an interest in Leonard, but before Mills bought the controlling interest. This early Leonard rod is made of beautiful Calcutta cane. One tip down half an inch. All components are straight, no warpage, chips or cracks anywhere, as nice a set as you can hope to find. All bindings are tight and show no wear. Also included is an incredible, original bamboo extra tip holder that holds two tips snugly and has a screw off cap, it is also in perfect condition.

With exceptions -  Excellent condition

                            

H.L. Leonard Catskill original, 10', 3 pieces/2 mid/3 tips(one short). If you desire an historic, over 100 year‑old Leonard fly rod, this one would be hard to beat.  10 ft. with flip rings, bamboo tip case, original canvas partitioned case. All sections are correct length.  Even has 3 original metal "Bullseye" ferrule plugs.The varnish on the tip sections if excellent, while the other sections are nearly so and could be brought to excellent with a little cleaning/rubbing with Stock Sheen. Now here's the hitch. About 1/4 of the guides need to be rewound ‑ but the guides and bars are present.  Aside from requiring finish on the windings, the original varnish does not need a re‑do.  The intermediate tyings are fine also.After rewinding those guides, you would have a finer and more original rod than 99% of the Nineteenth Century Leonards that are out there. Stamping on reel seat reads "The H.L. Leonard Rod, Leonard & Mills Co. Maker@. 

Excellent+ condition

 

H.L. Leonard Catskill original 1915, 10', 3 pieces/2 tips, 4.9 oz(139g). From circa 1887-1915. First advertised April 24, 1879 the original Catskill had new one-piece drawn female and a two-piece male ferrules. The only carryovers from the Bangor-style rods were the rattan grips. The ealier original Catskill had very light soldered-pocket german silver reel seat. Around 1890 this was changed to a sliding-band walnut reel seat. This is most certainly that rod. There is a swelled butt and English snake guides which indicates it was built 1910-1915 whereafter most rods had American snake guides. The butt cap is marked AThe H.L. Leonard Rod, Leonard & Mills Co., Makers@. A fabulous rod and a collector=s dream. The stripping guide on this rod is loose.

With this exception - Excellent condition

 

H.L. Leonard Catskill Original, 10' 3 piece/2 tips (second tip 6" short). From circa 1887-1900. The brass capped wood tube looks like cherry wood The nickel silver ring & cap over the wood spacer is stamped but difficult to read,AThe H.L. Leonard Rod, Leonard & Mills Co., Makers@.  The slightly tarnished seamed ferrules which are stamped with the 1875 & 1878 Pat. dates were probably a little tighter 80 or 90 years ago, but still have a decent fit & have no clicking. There has been an over‑varnish at some point that has also covered the small cigar (just under 5" in length) cork grip. There is a 4" clear wrap (almost impossible to see) on the lower mid section & there are some varnish touch up spots here & there but the finish is in good shape & the rod appears very fishable. (if that is desired).

With exceptions - Excellent condition

 

H.L. Leonard Regular Catskill No 45, 9'. 3 pieces/2 tips. This rod comes from the estate of a famous name in fishing collectables, Phil Snyder. His description of the rod follows: "9' Leonard Catskill, circa 1920's, 3/2, 4oz. on the tag(4 1/4oz. actual), DT4/5 line, medium action, stubby cigar grip, blued nickle silver slide band seat, inscribed AThe Leonard Rod/HL Leonard Rod Co./Makers@ with butternut filler, red wraps with intermediates, fancy signature wraps on butt(3‑1‑12‑1‑3), blued ferrules, reverse twist guides, clear agate stripper and tip top, golden straw color varnished cane, moderate swell butt, orig bag, tag and tube(aluminum with brass cap and bottom)."  There were three rusted guides which the former owner had professionally replaced  with correct english guides. This amazing rod is full length, original, with no repairs. The ferrules are as tight and pop like any modern Leonard, the rod is straight and has a truly amazing full length action that lays a line out as straight as any rod I have owned. I prefer a 5DT, but a 4DT is ok, as the super fine 3.5/64 tips load easily with a light line. (That is correct, my micrometer shows the tips as sub 4/64" INCLUDING VARNISH!)The hang tag is a bit hard to read, but correctly identifies this rod as a rare Catskill model. The varnish is in excellent condition and ready to fish if that is your thing. The cork is soiled but in very good condition.. 

Excellent+ condition

 

H.L. Leonard Regular Catskill, No 41, 8=, 3 piece/2 mid/2 tips. This is the classic ACatskill@ model, with the patent dated female ferrule and the red silk intermediate winds. It comes with the older knurled nickel‑silver sliding band. This rod has two full length tip sections, and two full length mid sections, and it is in all original condition. It has the nice old Leonard agate stripping guide, and the 1/4@ corks on the handle. The rod could use two rewraps, one on a male ferrule, and one‑half of the stripping guide wind. Aside from that, one could preserve this #3 DTF as it is. It comes with the original cloth bag and the correct brass capped Leonard case. This classic American rod has no repairs, no cracks in the bamboo, or non‑Leonard replacement parts.

Excellent condition

 

H.L. Leonard Fairy Catskill No 382, 72',  #3, 3 pieces/2 tips, 3.1 oz(88g). Prefire rod, 1930's era. Blunt cigar-shaped grip  4.1" in length and 0.9" in diameter, N/S and butternut S/B reel seat and a swelled butt. The butt cap is marked AThe Leonard Rod, H.L. Leonard Rod Co., Makers, Reg US Pat Off@. On the other side of the cap A Special Tournament@. Agate first, steel guides and tops, wound Chinese red silk. One tip has short almost invisible repair wind. All sections are the same length and the finish good. Medium action. Original bag, tag and case.

Excellent+ condition


H.L. Leonard Baby Catskill No 37, 6', #3-4, 2 pieces/1 tip, 1 7/8 oz(54g). Prefire rod. The Leonard rod has no serial #. The butt cap is marked "HL, H L Leonard Rod Co. –MAKERS", made ca 1950-60. The cork has a modrerate soiling and mearures 4 1/2" in length and only 3/4" in diameter. The reel seat is a sliding band nickel silver with a butternut wood spacer, it will accept a reel foot of up to 2 1/2" in length. The ferrules are tight. Refinished to a very appealing appearance. The wraps are a yellow/orange color which could have been the original color but most likely not. The guides are replacements as they are gold in color. This is a really nice and hard to find short Leonard and could easily be brought back to original. Hook keeper appears original. He ideal midge rod for the small streams. The bagand tube are replacements. 

Mint Restored

H.L. Leonard Baby Catskill No 37, 6', #1-2, 2 pieces/2 tips, 15/16 oz(26g!)."World's Lightest Fly Rod" is how Leonard marketed this rod. Prefire rod. The butt cap is marked AThe Leonard Rod, H.L. Leonard Rod Co., Makers”, made ca 1940. This rod weighs just below 15/16 ounce. Has a 3 1/2" cigar grip and a 2 1/4" butternut sliding band reel seat. All sections full length. The wraps are olive throughout the rod. The guides are English reverse twist style including the stripping guide which is also a snake guide. Rod comes in its original bag and tube. The bag has the original label that lists the rod as a model 37 with a weight of 15/16 oz. The other information on the rod is not legible. Everything on this rod has been miniaturized. Has a very slow action for a 1-2 wt. line. Overall condition is excellent original. It is amazing that this rod has survived with no problems                                        
Excellent condition

H.L. Leonard. Pre 1920-era No 27(?), 10', 3pieces/2 tips, 6.25oz(177g). Cigar shaped grip 5.5" in length and 1" in diameter, and very delicate and lightweight metal reel seat and butt cap marked AThe H. L. Leonard Rod, Leonard and Mills Co., Makers@. Tan silk windings with decorative butt windings, no intermediate wraps. Rod looks like it is very little used, allmost mint. Both ferrule plugs are there. Rod comes in original canvas bag in excellent condition which also houses the mint aluminium tube with brass cap for the tips                           
Near Mint condition

H.L. Leonard No 99 AKnight@, 9' 9", 3 pieces/2 tips, 72 oz (215g). Split bamboo fly rod, all original, all excellent, all sections the same length.  Comes with original bag with hang tag and tube. Flyrod is marked on the all nickle‑silver reel seat with the Leonard logo and ASpecial Tournament@. Original sales price sticker of $100 is still on tube which leads me to believe the rod was made about 1955. This is a model that Martin J. Keane raves about in his book, "Classic Rods and Rodmakers". Says Keane, "...if you pass by this rod and like most anglers delegate its use to someone else, you may be sorry@. Also, "It can, with proper execution, throw a very long line with pinpoint accuracy. The slow, easy tapers allow the rod to build up a power base that can effortlessly throw a long backcast ‑‑ which the long rod keeps up there ‑‑ and allows accurage changes of direction without false casting. In fact, when properly used, no false casting is required at all." The rod looks to be completely original. There are no repairs or flaws in the rod of any kind. 

Excellent+ condition

 

H.L. Leonard Ouananiche No 25(?), 92', 3 pieces/2 tips, 6 7/8 oz(164g). Cigar shaped grip, N/S reel seat marked  AH.L.Leonard maker, W.Mills & Son New York‑Sole Agents@ and a swelled butt.This dates the rod to 1879-1886, probably made by H.L. Leonard himself. These Ouananiche and Bass  models are the rods that have made Split Bamboo Rods famous. The rod is described in the 1920 W.M. & Son catalog: AThese rods are so beautiful flexible and yet so powerful and strong@. Comes with a bamboo sleeve with a brass cap for storing the tips. The center piece and one tip have been shortened and has been professionally refinished at one time. There is a set in the tip. 

Good condition

 

H.L. Leonard Special Tournament No 52, 92ft, #5-6, 3 pieces/2 tips, 5 7/8 oz(167g). Prefire rod ca 1923. Small 8.15" handle with  4.80" long and 0.9" diameter cigar grip and nickel silver reel seat. Butt cap marked AThe Leonard Rod, H.L. Leonard Rod Co., Makers@, also marked ASpecial Tournament@ above this. Nickel silver windings check with signature windings. Red wraps over honey colored varnished bamboo.. Agate line guide and bright N/S ferrules. Each sections are straight and of equal original length. Comes with original bag with a hole in the bottom and aluminium tip tube. No rod tube. 

Excellent condition

 

H.L. Leonard Tournament No 51, 9', 3 pieces/2 tips, 42 oz(132g). Prefire rod. One of the tips is 1/2" longer than the other. It has the original nickel plated brass tube, rod cover sleeve with the original tag marked with "H.L. Leonard, Tournament, 9 Feet, 4 1/2 ounces", a tip tube made of aluminmun with brass caps, and a tip cloth sleeve. The rod is in excellent condition except for the the varnish which for some reason has become a little sticky and affected the finish, it probably needs to be re‑varnished. One extra tip appears to have never been used. The cork handle 42@ in length and 0.9" in diameter and in excellent condition. On the butt cap, it is marked "The Leonard Rod, HL Leonard Rod Co., Makers@, also marked ATournament@ above this. The craftsmanship on the Leonard Rods are considered the best for bamboo rods.

Excellent condition

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

H.L. Leonard Tournament No 51,  9', #5-6, 3 pieces/2 mid/3 tips, 42 oz(133g). Prefire rod. Half wells grip with nickel silver cap and ring on walnut reel seat,  yellow tipped burgundy, agate stripper and tip tops. The butt cap is marked AThe Leonard Rod, H.L. Leonard Rod Co., Makers@. On the other side of the cap ATournament@.  This rare model is beleived to be G.E.M. Skues cherished favorite which was frequently immortalized in his angling books as the AW.B.R.@, the World=s Best Rod. Later custom built ferruled handle will make a sweet companion rod of 6' from a tip and mid for a 4 wt line. Old world handsome and eminently fishable. All original in its correct bag and tube.

Excellent condition

 

H.L. Leonard Tournament No 51,  9', #5-6, 3 pieces/3 tips, oz(g). This three piece rod is the famous “G.E.M. Skues” model, (known as the W.B.R. –“Worlds Best Rod”) with the beautiful bell‑shaped fore‑grip. This “ Tournament” model rod has a walnut reel seat and the German silver sliding band and butt cap, with the nickel silver patent dated ferrules. The butt cap is marked AThe Leonard Rod, H.L. Leonard Rod Co., Makers@. This rod has been beautifully refinished, with the correct silks, and all sections are full length with no repair winds. The ferrules are tight, and the sections are straight, and this classic Leonard – in this condition, can be fished or collected.

MR

 

H.L. Leonard Tournament No 51, 9', #5-6, 3pieces/2 tips. Nice delicate tips. Butternut spacer with bright nickel silver hardware including knurled ring & cap. Wells grip with interesting large N/S winding check. Cap is stamped AThe H.L. Leonard Rod, Leonard & Mills Co., Makers@ "Tournament". Ferrules are an excellent fit. This is probably another of these rare models that G.E.M. Skues cherished favorite which was frequently immortalized in his angling books as the AW.B.R.@, the World=s Best Rod. This rod appears well cared for & shows evidence of very light use, but no abuse. It appears to have had re‑wraps on the female ferrules & stripper guide. (not a great match, but easy to put right) It has probably had an over varnish at some point & a few of the snake guides have a bit of rust. (English twist snakes) All 4 sections are straight & I can find no sign of old repairs, clear wraps or delaminations. The stripper & tip tops are red agate, on close inspection I have found a crack line in one of the tip tops, the others are fine. I do not know if the bag is original, the tube is not. This is a beautiful old classic. 

Excellent condition


H.L. Leonard 51L, Prefire rod, 9', #7-8, 3 pieces/2 tips, 5 5/8 oz. It has a cigar grip with downlocking butternut reel seat. Hooded nickel silver reel seat cap marked "HL, H.L. Leonard Rod Co., Makers", nickel silver winding check, flapring hook keeper, tan silks, tipped brown, on blued snake guides over honey colored varnished bamboo. Agate line guide and bright N/S ferrules. Butt ferrule has Leonard patent dates. Each piece is of the correct length and with original hardware. The rod was professionally refinished by Mr. George Fraley who studied with D. Whitehead.  All the silks, ferrules, colors, etc. are original.. The rod bag and the rod tube are replacements. 

MR

 

H.L. Leonard Mills Standard, Prefire rod, 9', #6-7, 3 pieces/2 tips, 52 oz, half wells grip with nickel silver cap and downlock hardware on butternut reel seat. Tan wraps. Built 1960.  

Excellent condition

 

H.L. Leonard Special Combination Rod, 82= - 93=, 4pieces/2 tips + detachable handle. Rare early Leonard Special Combination Trout Rod having detachable handle. The 5 sections plus handle make‑up either an 8 1/2 ft., 4 1/2 oz. rod or a 9 1/4 ft., 5 1/2 oz. rod. There is handle cork chip, otherwise the rod is excellent with brass fitted tip tube and canvas case with original factory hanging tag, plus later aluminum tube.

Excellent+ condition

H.L. Leonard Tournament No 50DF, 8ft, #5/6, 3 pieces/2tips, 3,70 oz (105g). A highly desireable, classic Pre‑fire. 1930-1940 era, Leonard Model 50DF Bamboo Fly Rod with the classic cap and ring reel seat and a beautiful walnut insert. The rod is straight without imperfection and all the sections are the same length. Rod is in near mint condition. Marked "The Leonard Rod, H.L Leonard Rod Co,Tournament, Reg US Pat Off" sock, tag and tube are all original. Here is a very rare rod indeed! From the looks of the reel seat, I would say it has never been fished, a delicate and beautiful  bamboo rod!  Varnish and silk wraps are in near mint condition!  I can not find a chip in the varnish anywhere! Tips appear to be identical, all wraps are very tight! Both ferrules still have original protecting cap. Cork is in very good condition, with only a minor rub, and no cuts at all. Rod has been stored in a temp/humidity controlled room for long term preservation! Simply a spectacular specimen of one of the most acclaimed rods in history.                                                                                                  
Near Mint condition

H.L. Leonard Tournament No 4099, 8ft, #6-7, 3 pieces/2tips, 4.23 oz (120g). A highly desireable, classic pre-fire 1933-1954 era Leonard Tournament Dry Fly 4099 bamboo fly rod. This rod is lightly more powerful than the 50DF model. The rod is straight without imperfection and all sections are the same length. Tiny cigar grip and a cap and ring over butternut insert. Beautiful light cane with black silk wraps tipped red. Ferrules have the pat. Sep 3, 1878-markings. The original tag is still there and reads “8 feet”, “4.5 ounces” and “No 4099”. Rod comes with original, brass capped tube and bag. End cap marked “The Leonard Rod, H.L. Leonard Rod Co., Makers, Reg US Pat Off” and on the opposite side “Tournament”. Other than a light blemish on the cork and two very light surface scratches on the middle section, this rod would be in mint condition.  

Excellent+ condition

 

H.L. Leonard Tournament No 4099, 8ft, #6, 3 pieces/2tips, 4.83 oz (137g). A highly desireable, classic Pre‑fire, 1950-1960 era, Leonard Model 4099DF Bamboo Fly Rod. The rod is straight without imperfection and all the sections are the same length. Downlocking reel seat, butternut insert, beautiful light cane with red wraps. End cap marked AThe Leonard Rod, HL Leonard Rod Co, Makers, Reg US Pat Off.@ Rod would be fully Mint but cork shows very light usage. This rod is more powerful than the 50DF model. Rod comes with original, brass capped Leonard tube (tube still has label) and bag.

Near Mint condition

 

H.L. Leonard Duracane, 7½ft, #5, 2 pieces/2 tips, x oz(xg). This is a impregnated Duracane rod. This makes the cane maintenance free, no re-varnishing ever necessary. All sections are original full length and straight. Down locking reel seat with butternut wood insert. Ferrules and butt cap are nickel silver. Rod is all original, no repairs, original cotton bag and original brass capped aluminum rod tube. This rod is marked “H. L. Leonard Rod Co. Makers”. The serial number 2122 is marked on all pieces. Dark olive wraps are all in excellent shape and the handle shows some light wear do to normal use, but no digs or other problems with the cork.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Excellent condition

 

H.L. Leonard 39DF4, Postfire rod, 72', #3-4, swelled butt, 2 pieces/2 tips, 32 oz(102g), built 1979-1983 by Thomas Maxwell. Translucent yellow silks. Tiny cigar grip 5.5" in length and 0.9" in diameter, and a lovely cap and ring over tiger maple insert. Hardware blued. The butt cap is marked AH.L. Leonard Rod Co., The Rodmaker Since 1889". The rod shaft is marked A39DF-4" and A465P@. All dye stampings and logos are correct Just stunning and remarkably able.  

Mint condition

 

H.L. Leonard Hunt No 38DF, Postfire rod, 7ft, #4, swelled butt, 2 pieces/2 tips, built circa 1979. The rod is fished very sparely and there is some apprpriate wear of the reel seat blueing, only,otherwise in near mint condition. Second tip is about 3"short but would probably still cast nice (a little faster) once a tip guide is installed. Original bag and tube. This rod was made during Tom Maxwell's tenure as master rod maker and was the highest point in quality for the Leonard Rod Co. 

Near Mint condition

 

Orvis Lancewood Fly Rod, pre 1900-model, 9'. Flip rings, 3 pieces/2 tips one short and one with a missing tip top, 6.4 oz(181g). Serial# 286. This is a very rare lancewood model. Rare because you seldom see these rods at the original length as it is allmost impossible to repair. The user just replaced the broken rod with a new tip top and did so until the rod was so short it was useless to cast the line. This rod is in original length but the second tip is 4" short. Sheet cork handle with the Eggleston=s 1882 pat. spring loaded reel seat. Some loose wraps. Sections measure from largest to smallest: 37",  37",  35 1/5" and 31 1/2". No tip top on 35 1/2". There is no tube and the cloth case is almost worn out completely.

Good condition

 

Orvis Bamboo Fly Rod, 1920 model, 82', 3 pieces/2 tips, 3.6 oz(131g). Serial# 603. Beautiful handle in 6-strip cork sheet with nicely crafted N/S reel bands on figured walnut. Red intermediate wraps. Very delicate mirror tips. This rod was restored by the Orvis Company 1995. Fabulous restoration to exact specs. All sections are original length without any repairs. Only guides, guide wraps and intermediate wraps were replaced with thr original for the time, no other hardware were replaced. The rod was then varnished and polished to original new condition. Original bag and replacement Orvis tube with original letter conversation with the Orvis Co.

Mint Restored

 

Orvis Bamboo Fly Rod, ca 1882. 10', 6.8 oz(193g), 3 pieces/2tips. Serial# 900. C.F. Orvis Fly Rod with an extra tip in an old 44" round Bamboo case. This rod is in excellent shape. The cork handle is in nice condition, although it may have an old varnish. All the eyelets and wrapping are original and in great shape. The rod is a 3 (three) piece unit, with an extra tip, all sections the same length measuring 40 3/4". A great piece. It even has the ferrule plugs.

Excellent condition

 

 

 

 

 

Orvis Bamboo Fly Rod, 1915 model, 9', 3 pieces/2 tips, 4.9oz(140g). Serial#1242This is a rare find today. The is a 9' Orvis Rod from circa 1915‑1920. It is 3/2 (NO short sections) absolutely MINT. Never refinished. This is far before impregnated rods came to be; it is straw colored varhished cane with red guide wraps and intermediate wraps throughout. This is an Orvis collectors item. Still fishable too, for an unusal stream experience. My guess is a 5 weight line. Highest quality GS reel seat bearing the following engraved inscribtion "ORVIS ROD; C. F. ORVIS COMPANY; MAKERS; MANCHESTER, VERMONT". Pretty much like a 9' Battenkill.

Mint condition

 

Orvis Bamboo Fly Rod, ca 1890, 82=, 4.8 oz(137g), 3 pieces/1 tip. Mid section is probably 6' short. Serial# 1257. With a walnut and cork handle the only 2 imprinted markings on the silver is "Orvis Co. Manchester, VT." on the plate where the reel would sit and again on the silver cap on the end of the handle. There are NO breaks, cracks, chips etc to any part of the cork, bamboo, metal, walnut, eyes or the nice red bands (cork has one small dent). The number 1257 is inked on the base of all sections. The only fault I could find in the pole beside a need of cleaning is the slight downward bend of the end piece where it was fished. This is an early Orvis rod that any collector would love to own. 

Good condition

 

Orvis Battenkill, 82', #8, 2 pieces/1 tip. Downlocking seat on polished walnut. Nice dark impregnated cane with brown windings and  blued ferrules. Tip broken at last snake ring near tip but can be ordered from the Orvis Co.
With exception in exellent condition

 

Orvis Battenkill, 8', #7, 42 oz, 3 pieces/1 tip. Downlocking seat on polished walnut. Nice dark impregnated cane with brown windings and blued ferrules.

Exellent condition

 

Orvis Limestone Special, 82', #6, 42oz, 2 pieces/2 tips. Nice dark brown cane, downlock seat on varnished mahogny and perfect cigar grip.  Seldom seen model produced by Orvis for only a short time. Inspired by the chalk streams of England, but a nice rod for fishing large and small flies on tender tippets on the West Branch, the Housatonic, the White, the Roaring Fork, the Madison, the Deschutes, Hat Creek, the Henry's Fork or where ever you find selective trout! The rod is in excellent shape and has hardly been fished. (by me). It's light in the hand at only 42oz. Ferrules are tight and bluing is in great shape. All guide and ferrule wraps are original. Rod is impregnated. The rod is factory rated as a 6 weight, but it's best suited to a DT-5. Straight and full length. Comes with original cloth sack, Orvis aluminum tube with good but worn label. Great cork grip with Orvis downlocking walnut reel seat. A truly classic rod.

Eellent condition

 

Orvis Impregnated A99", 7', 2 pieces/1, 32 oz, HDH (6 WT). 2nd tip was optional on this model.Fishes excellent with a DT5 line.Like new, exc.label on original tube,  also original bag and booklet describing care of rod etc.Circa 1963 manufactoring date.Purchased as unused from a noted Massachusetts dealer 1997 and used once. Serial #35,714. Impregnated, blued ferrules, red wraps,wood insert on downlock seat, flawless. 

Near mint condition

 

Orvis Battenkill Deluxe, 62', #HEH(DT5F), 2 pieces/2 tips, 2 oz(57g). Serial# 12979, likely a 1952 model. Double s/b rings on very rare factory original pine reel seat and a small superfine cork grip. Chocolate cane wrapped brown. Encouraged by Lee Wulff, Wes Jordan built these most famous lightweight rods, exquisitely made in every detail. Lee Wulff has landed Atlantic Salmons over 30 lbs with this rod. Original bag and tube.

Excellent+ condition

 

Orvis Rocky Mountain, 62=, #HDG(6), 3 pieces/2 tips, 33 oz(91 g). This is a  very rare true classic rod from the Wes Jordan era at Orvis. A beautiful, rod in the desireable 3 piece configuration in excellent condition. The rod comes in its original cloth bag and aluminum rod tube. Only thing missing is the blue label on the tube. It came off a number of years ago and has been misplaced. The rod is completely original. It has a cigar shaped cork handle that tapers down to the rod shaft at the forward part of the grip. The reel seat is the standard Orvis screw‑down locking type with a walnut spacer. The ferrules are blued and fit together perfectly, producing a delightful popping sound when separated. The rod comes with a spare tip. All four sections are the correct, exact same length. Markings on the rod shaft are as follows: "Orvis Impregnated"/"Rocky Mountain" on two flats of the bamboo just forward of the grip. The rod color is deep chocolate brown, with slightly darker brown wraps. Serial #35,8XX marked on all four sections. This rod, although marked for a WF6 line, works best with a DT5 or a WF5. An early catalog states that the Rocky Mountain fly rod was built entirely from butt‑cut bamboo to produce a rod with the maximum power fibers in its construction. The rods has a wonderful semi‑parabolic action. The only flaws I can find are some small marks on the butt cane just in front of the grip, small marks from the reel on the reel seat and a minor dent on the butt cap (see picture). This is a very nice Orvis Rocky Mountain Fly rod.

Excellent+ condition

 

F.E. Thomas Special Browntone, 9', 3 pices/2 tips, 6.7 oz(191g). Serial# A371. Light salmon dry fly rod. The rod is light caramel color, cork handle with a thumb set, 4 pieces that are the same length and all straight. The two tops are made different tapers. Wraps are light brown and excellent, snake guides are excellent, butt section that can be attached to main butt section, walnut uplocking seat, ferrule plug, intermediate section, and butt section.It also has a small stainless steel tube and a tiny bag that the tips go into, this slides into a like new canvas bag, then the intermediate, butt section and little butt section go into separate slots in the bag. This rod has probably only been lawn casted.  Says, " F. E. Thomas Special, Bangor, Maine A371" on the N/S butt cap.

Near mint condition

 

F.E. Thomas Special Browntone, 9', 3 pieces/2 tips (one tip 1 3/4" short), 5,5 oz(157g). Serial# 32. The finish is flawless the wraps are all good and all sections are tight and straight. Other than the short tip this rod is beautiful. The hanging tag reads "Thomas Special Browntone 9' 5 3/8 ounces". I believe this rod is for a 5 or 6 weight line. The tube is the high quality brass capped Thomas rod tube with distinctive blue and yellow "Thomas Rod" logo. 

Excellent+ condition

 

F.E. Thomas Browntone, 7', #4, 2 pieces/2 tips, 32 oz(99g). Serial# 391. This is the lightest and most saught after rod built by F.E. Thomas. Brown silks with olive accents. Delicate small cigar grip with downlocking seat on mahogny and a swelled butt.  

Excellent+ condition

 

F.E. Thomas Browntone Streamer, 9', #6-7, x oz(xg), 3 pieces/2 tips. Serial# x. This is the classic Streamer rod that Marty Keane was so enthusiastic about in a Browntone version, the apogee of quality that Thomas produced at the time.The rod is darkly flamed with blued ferrules and hardware. Rare (for this model) all cork sliding band reel seat, cigar grip (cork has slight ridging due to age), classic Thomas 3‑7‑3 signature wraps, combination winding check and hook keeper, wraps burgundy‑brown silk, with red accents at the male ferrules and winding check, agate stripper guide, very good varnish. All sections full length. In replaced cloth bag (original bag will be supplied but has holes) with original hanging tag reflecting model and weight. Comes with original knurled brass cap tube w/ Thomas decal.. The only flaw I'm aware of is that one tip has been expertly scarfed by master builder, Jim Schaaf (I can't tell which tip). It's a superb casting rod. A copy of the Thomas ledger documenting the rod will be supplied with the rod. 

Excellent condition

 

 

 

 

 

F.E. Thomas Special Streamer, 9', #7, 6 oz(172g), 3 pieces/2 tips. Serial# H469. Brown wrapps. Downlocking seat with extended nickel silver butt cap, walnut insert and wells grip. Much desired and rare lighter line size sreamer rod. Some wraps have been redone. This is the very rod described in M.J. Kean's book as "amazing when working a long line with heavy flies, yet comfortable to use". Original bag and tube.  With exceptions in

Excellent condition

 

F.E. Thomas Special Streamer, 9', #5-6, 5 oz(g), 3 pieces/2 tips.  Serial# 419. Original brass capped aluminum tube and deep green bag (bag has small iron‑on patch at top of mid pocket). Down locking ‑ wood insert reel seat with AF.E. THOMAS, SPECIAL, BANGOR, ME@ stamped in butt cap with usual surround. Amber colored agate stripper. Typical Thomas hanging ring keeper. Oversized/heavy duty snakes. German Silver ferrule plug for mid female ferrule. Deep maroon original wraps. A past refinisher has very carefully removed the original varnish from between the original wraps and, in my opinion, refinished the rod with a tung oil finish. The rod is quite attractive and certainly presentable as is but really should be re‑varnished with a good high gloss varnish including the wraps. Beautiful straw colored cane. Good tight Thomas ferrules. Straight with beautiful smooth and even action. A great and important rod. 

Excellent+ condition

 

F.E. Thomas Special, 9', #6-7, 3 pieces/1 tip, 5 5/16 oz(151g). Serial# FE346 on butt cap. Downlocking reel seat with walnut insert, cigar grip and a swelled butt. All ferrules are N/S, intact and tight. All pieces are full length, no sets and no hook drags.

VG+ condition

 

F.E. Thomas Special, 82', #5-6, 3 pieces/2 tips, 4.9 oz(140g). Serial# 8. Small cigar grip, all N/S reelseat, S/B and guides. Built in the late 20's right after they quit the intermediate wraps. The rod was factory rewrapped in the 40's. Wraps are black and gold jasper with a red color preserver over the ferrule wraps. All ferrules intact and tight. All pieces are full length, no sets and no hook drags. Comes in original bag with cane tip tube where the cap is missing.

VG condition

 

Gene Edwards Autograph deluxe 52, 72', #5, 43oz, 2 pieces/2 tips. A rarely seen superb fast dry fly rod. Brown wraps with yellow accents. Half wells grip with uplock walnut seat. Original bag and tube.

Excellent condition

 

Gene Edwards Autograph deluxe, 82', #5, 4.8 oz(137g), 3 pieces/2 tips. A nicely refinished Gene Edwards bamboo rod Unfortunately, the markings were lost when the rod was stripped and re‑varnished. Refinish is nicely done with good varnish and handsome maroon wraps. A new stripper was added. Ferrules are tight and correct blued high quality machined nickel silver. Trademark Edwards uplocking reel seat with highly figured walnut spacer. All sections are straight and full‑length. One tip (about mid‑way) has an invisible wrap covering a small hook gouge; tip is structurally fine and casts smoothly. Rod carries a DT‑5 like a dream! One of the best trout rods ever made; Gene Edwards tapers are superb. Cork is good but lightly ridged from cleaning. Includes nice aluminum case and incorrect cloth sack. 

Excellent condition

 

Gene Edwards Autograph deluxe, 92, #7-8, 6.8 oz(193g), 3 pieces/2 tips/detachable butt end. A beautiful all original Gene Edwards trout rod from the 1920 era. All sections straight and full length. Original rod bag and tube. Brown wraps with yellowaccents. Screw-locking reelseat with two small notches in the locking ring and missing ferrule plug in the butt end are the only flaws exept normal use.

With exceptions – Excellent condition

 

Thomas & Edwards, 9', #4-5, 5.1 oz(145g), 3 pieces/2 tips. This historical rod is one of the rarest of all collectible fly tackle. It is marked on the rolled and soldered nickel silver reel seat with the markings AThe VL&A Von Lengerke & Antoine Chicago@. Fred Thomas and Eustis Edwards had a short lived but historically famous partnership that originally started with there apprenticeship with the great Hiram Leonard. Thomas & Edwards rods were made during the 1898‑1899 period in Brewer, Maine and are very hard to find. This rod is in beautiful condition and features early rolled and soldered ferrules, tiny 1/4@ cork rings on the grip, black guide wraps over the hanging ring guides, dark red full intermediate wraps, and a full nickel silver real seat. Also comes with it's vintage form rod holder and canvas bag. This rod does have one tip down aprox 2@, but is in wonderful shape for a rod that is over 100 years old. This vintage rods is made by Fred Thomas. This one, and another in my collection, are from a collection of vintage rods and are great investment items as well as historically important rods. 

With exceptions -  Excellent condition

 

Thomas & Edwards,9', #4-5, 5.0 oz(142g), 3 pieces/2 tips. This is a Thomas and Edwards Bamboo fly rod with the marking ASuperb@ that Martin Keane have attributed as a Thomas & Edwards fly rod. This rod is part of a collection of vintage rods made by Fred Thomas that had been purchased from Martin Keane himself. Mr. Keane is one of the most noted authorities on Thomas rods and a long time collector and dealer of vintage tackle. This 3 piece rod has two full length tips and is in beautiful original condition. The rod is virtually all original with distinct Calcutta cane patches over all, tiny 1/4" cork rings, black wraps over English twist guides, delicate olive full intermediate wraps, and has a red agate stripping guide as well as agate tip tops. This rod is in excellent overall condition, considering it is over 100 years old. Comes with original bag and tube. This is a very important historical rod as both Fred Thomas and Eustis Edwards only were in business together for less than 1 year, having left the historic H.L. Leonard Rod shop, and started there own shop in Brewer, Maine in 1898. Only a year later they would split, and the Thomas Rod Co. would be born. This is your opportunity to own a piece of history.

Excellent+ condition

 

Gillum H.S. APinky@, 6', #2-3, 2 pieces/1 tip. Slide band over mahogny spacer reel seat. This is a collector=s dream. One of the rarest and most valuable rods you can find today. There are only 2 or three rods known today. Other than some very light cork handle soiling this rod is in shiny original near mint condition in original bag and labeled tube. An extremely rare size from a very classic rodmaker. The last short Gillum was 6'6" with 2 tips, that went at auction 10 years ago,for about 15,000. This one has only a single tip, but is 6" shorter, at 6' a much, much lighter and rarer size.

Excellent+ condition

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Payne Jim model 96, 62=, #4, 2 pieces/1 tip (made that way), 23 oz(64g). Small cigar shaped grip. Down locking N/S sliding band with a cedar wood reel seat insert. Delicate brown windings tipped yellow/gold. This beautiful six foot, six inch single tip Jim Payne fly rod was sold through Abercrombie and Fitch circa 1967.  Jim died in 1968.  The last rods he made were marked "Made for Abercrombie and Fitch". A couple of years before that he sold rods marked only with the Payne logo directly to customers and others through Abercrombie and Fitch marked with the company logo and "Sold by Abercrombie and Fitch".  Payne rods sold by Abercrombie and Fitch was made originally with only one tip. A second tip required a special order. The winds on this rod are flawless and the varnish is typical gorgeous Payne varnish and is near mint but for one small spot later described.  The rod has been used and the cork is slightly soiled but in excellent condition.  The bluing on the reel seat slide band is over 50% worn off.  The bluing elsewhere such as the butt cap and the ferrules is excellent +.  The reel seat is Spanish Cedar which Jim used to cut total weight of the rod and Spanish Cedar is slightly "bumpy" and a very few pin head sized spots on the reel seat have the varnish nicked off by the slide band.  The only other damage or use wear is a very slight hook "dig" on the tip. The "dig" being perhaps 1/3 of a milimeter wide and about the width of a size 24 hook point and perhaps 4 mm's long. This dig is not deep enough or wide enough to cause concern for the safety of the tip. In my opinion the "dig" does not effect the casting or stability or soundness of the rod in any way that I can see. It has had a coat of varnish to it to keep water away from any bare bamboo.  The rod is a four weight rod and the tip is truly a delicate, fine tip. This rod is a real little casting machine, a casting short to over 50‑60 feet with accuracy and ease and never tiring the caster. The rod is not fished for over 15 years. The Payne decal is still on the metal tube but it is in poor shape because the original owner put some kind of plastic covering over it to "protect" it because it was obviously getting scuffed and  the plastic has adhered to the decal.  However, I have an extra reproduction decal I will include with the rod to the buyer. 

Excellent+ condition

 

Payne Jim model 212, 92=, #7-8, 3 pieces/1mid/3 tips, 6.1 oz(173 g). A very rare rod originally made with 3 tips, two identical trout tips and one 0.035 oz beefier stealhead tip. Payne grip with up-locking reelseat and a beautiful wood insert. Delicate brown windings tipped black. Rod is marked APAYNE@ and AREG. U.S. PAT. OFF and seems to have hardly been used. This rod is all original, nothing repaired and no re‑varnish job done. All rod sections are original length with original ferrules, guides, wrappings, and with factory rod case and sock. The windings are flawless and the varnish is typical gorgeous original Payne and near mint. The blueing on the ferrules and tip tops show very little use, about 99% of original. It's a dandy. The rod is a remarkable casting machine, throws over 70 feet with accuracy and and lifts a long line with ease. Quite rare with the steelhead tip which makes the turn over of big heavy flies easy and also gives the extra strength to cope with the power of big steelheads. Approximate year made 1942. 

Near Mint condition

 

Payne Jim model 218L,102=, #7-8, 3 pieces/1 mid,2 tips, 10.25oz(291g). A very rare rod in this condition. There is a 218 and a 218H in the E.F. Payne 1931 catalog. The 218L was a rare special order model. Everything is there. All pieces are the right length. Detachable butt with butt plug, hang tag, ferrule plugs, outside bag as well as inside bag. Tube with label all intact. This is an outstanding rod.

Excellent + condition

 

Payne Jim model 218, 102=, #7-8, 3 pieces/1 mid,2 tips, xxxoz(xxxg). Another light salmon rod with spare tip, suction ferrules, snake eyelets with lined butt guide, fly keeper, olive tiped crimson whips, nickel silver reel seat stamped "E.F.Payne Rod Co Makers", complete with brass caped alloy tip tube and canvas bag. The tips are lovely and straight, the rod in good overall condition although lacks butt cap.

Excellent condition

 

P.H. Young Midge, 6' 3". 2 pieces/2 tips, 4 wt line. This is the original Midge rod from which all others are copied.This rod is one of a matched pair that were ordered in 1981. The rods were made by Paul's son Jack Young and delivered in early 1982. Only one of the rods has been used since 1982 and it is still as straight and strong as ever. This rod has never been used or fished. It is still in the same condition as received in 1982. Rod comes with original bag and aluminum tube.  

Mint condition

 

Thomas & Thomas Individualist TTT, 7ft, #2-3, 2 pieces/2 tips, 1 1/8 oz, serial #4549. This rod has a special history. It was made by Tom Maxwell in 1981, probably as a custom made rod as the ATTT@ model first appeared 1988 so this one must be recorded at the T&T bamboo rod shop as the first ever produced TTT. It differs from the 1988 model by the weight (1 3/8 oz). This is the flamed version with translucent tan guide wraps, and medium brown edgings, with darker brown wraps at the tip tops and ferrules. These smaller rods has a cigar grip and the fabulous mirror finished burled walnut spacer seat with oxidized N/S cap & ring. This is a delightful rod with a true medium action. By virtue of its lightweight nature this rod is very responsive and delicate without beeing Atoo soft@. 

Mint condition

 

R.L. Winston anniversary model, 8' 9", 2 pieces/1 tip (made that way) bamboo fly rod. Built in Sept. 1965 by Doug Merrick and Gary Howells at the SanFrancisco Shop on 3rd  St. For an. 8 wt. line. Light steelhead..The rod is marked on the rod shaft, R.L. Winston, then 8' 9", 4 7/8 oz. #9138, Pat. no. 2537488. The owner of this rod inquired to Winston and received hand written card which is also included. It is signed by Glen Bracket. In a later personal conversation about this rod Glen said, it's one of only two he knows about, and the other is in his personal collection.The rod is in mint unused condition, all original wraps with original bag and replacement tube. This is obviously a wonderful piece for anyone's collection.

Mint condition

 

R.L. Winston ALeetle Feller@,72=, #4, 4 pieces, 2 butts/2 tips, #3oz(xxg). The diminutive ultralight "Leetle Fellers," is a name coined by the inimitable angling author Peter J. Schwab ‑ the scrappy debunker of theories on rod balance and ineffective small trout rods. Schwab and Lew Stoner put their heads together and designed these uniquely specialized rods for #3 and #4 line. Built with delicate all‑cork grips and seats, the two‑piece instruments are a true delight to everyone who loves delicately built fly rods. Though this series of tiny rods posses great delicacy and may appear somewhat fragile to the uninitiated, they are not the slow and whippy rods one might assume from their statistics. Their hollow design reduces weight, not power.

When this rod was made for a Colorado gentleman before Winston's move to Montana, the butt section had an imperfection (glue line) on one of the flats, so the rod was sent back to Doug Merrick in Winston's San Francisco shop. Merrick made him a whole new butt section, with same lettering, handwriting, serial number etc., and repaired the imperfection on the original butt, returning both buttsections to the owner. So the unusual package he ended up with consists of two entire rods: two butts and two tips, all four parts carrying  the same serial numbers. The rods' original owner was a friend of Lee and Joan Wulff and appeared in an American Sportsman TV show with them casting this rod, which Lee and Joan also cast, as did Lefty Kreh and Stu Apt; all  greatly admired the sweet and powerful action of this two‑rod Lettle Feller. The original butt, the one repaired by Merrick, is slightly darker in shade than the other and slightly shorter, as repaired by Merrick ‑ see photos, than the replacement butt. There is no noticeable difference in action..

Near Mint condition

 

Walton Powell Custom, 10' sea trout, #8, 3 pieces/1 tip. Uplocking gold anodized reel seat with Walnut insert. Dark green windings on straw colored cane and polished tung oil finnish. The ULTIMATE Tonkin bamboo flyrod. One of One built in allmost pristine condition. Made from the last cane taken out of Tonkin Gulf in the 1940's. Custom built by Walton Powell for the seller. A prized investment for knowledgable collectors. The longest rod known to be built by Walton Powell. Accompanied with letters from Walton Powell. A very rare outstanding rod from this well known builder. Original bag and alum. tube.

Near Mint condition

 

Walton Powell Golden Signature, 8'10"/7'10", 2 pieces, 2 butts and 2 tops. Two different rods in different length, Uplocking gold anodized reel seat with walnut insert. Dark green windings on straw colored cane and polished tung oil finnish. The finest rod in Walton Powells line of rods. Original bag and tube.

Mint condition

 

 

E.C. Powell. 9', #6, 3 pieces/2 tips, 3 5/8 oz.  The action is medium fast, and due to Powell's signature "hollow butt" construction feels lighter and shorter in the hand. The rod is professionally restored with brown silks and intermediate wraps, agate strip guide, and varnished finish. The brass capped aluminum tube and rod sack are believed to be correct. E.C. Powell was the founder of the Powell Rod Co. which has been among the highest rated bamboo rod makers for three generations on the west coast. This rod is almost too beautiful to fish with, but too fishable to just hang on a wall. This is a must have rod. 

Mint Restored

 

Green River, 42=, 1 piece, #5, 1.90 oz(54g). Made by Green River Rodmakers, a well respected maker who recently won a top 3 rating for one of their rods from Gray's Sporting Journal (see their website www.flyrods.com). Rod has dark flame treated cane, swelled butt, small cigar grip, burl walnut uplocking nickel silver slide band reelseat, carbide stripper, hard chrome snakes, and light olive wraps tipped in black. This rod is in NEW, absolutely pristine condition. Lawn cast only. With original bag and tube (also pristine). Craftmanship is first rate throughout. The perfect rod for fishing those tight spots.

New

 

Michael Montagne, 8'3", #7-8, 2 pieces/2 tips, 4-strips, 5.4 oz(153g). Garrison grip. This rod is a quadrate (really a rectangle). Schweibert devoted the whole of page 182 of Trout Two to Montage. Since then production is stopped. The rod is unique in every way, from its skeleton reel seat with exposed bamboo shaft to the beautifully machined brass ferrule plug. One of the most beautiful and unusual finds today.

Mint condition

 

Kane Clinic, 7', 2 wt, 2 pieces/2 mirror tips. Rod custom made, hand‑planed taper of lightly flame‑hardened bamboo. Signed "Classic Midge" and "Special made for Jan Nystrom". Slimmed rattan handle with burg. silk inlay wrap slighty flamed as rod. Truncated ferrules. Burg. with black tipping at cork and ferrules and tip tops only. Rod comes with two mirror tips, gun blued cap & ring reel seat with byrds eye maple burl wood insert, gun metal blued hardware and aluminum rod case with protective rod bag. 

New

 

Parker Jon, 7’, #4, 32 oz(100g), 2 pieces/2 tips. This Parker bamboo fly rod is in excellant condition. It has been used very little, one tip is unused. The cork is very lightly soiled. The finish is almost flawless.  It has a browny maple reel seat, brown wraps with black tippings. The end cap and ring are black anodized nickel silver together with all snake rings. The serial number is: 9550, meaning built 1995 as number 50 that year. This rod has the original sleeve and aluminum tube. There are very few rods made with this quality of workmanship. This rod will most definatyely gain in value in the coming years. 

Near Mint

 

Lamberson Bill, 7”, #4, 2 pieces/1tip, 3,2 0z(90g). Built by Bill Lamberson, this handcrafted NODELESS CONSTRUCTION bamboo fly rod has all of its nodes removed which results in 20% more power fibers in the blanks. The rod is number 100 of this Columbia, Missouri rodmaker’s career.This rod is of blonde straw-color bamboo with translucent Classic Chestnut wraps, Garrison style pocketed cap-and-ring reel seat and cigar-style grip. The overall aesthetic of this rod is understated and very tastefully done. The action of this rod is based on a Payne 97 taper designed to produce an accurate, pleasant and deliberate cast with a dry fly action. It will place a DT4 line wherever you want it with delicacy and grace. Provided in a cloth rod bag and black and gold aluminum tube.
Bill Lamberson is recognized today as one of our country’s expert rodbuilders, and has written a number of articles that have been published in bamboo rodbuilding magazines. He serves on the board of directors of a group that sponsors an annual gathering of southern rodbuilders, and he sponsors an event which encourages the development of new tapers for bamboo rods. Bill has obtained his rare rodbuilding skills by attending gatherings of rodbuilders, reading rodbuilding books and magazines, and through hands-on experience spanning three decades. He is a friend of Harold Demarest of the Charles Demarest Company, which is one of the two major importers of high-quality tea stick bamboo from
China. Each of Bill’s fine bamboo fly rods is a work of art, a masterpiece, and owning such a rod is something that nearly everyfly fisher would like to do someday.

New

 

Edmonds Mark, 6½ft, #4, 2.75 oz(78g), 3 pieces/1 tip. This is a PERFECT reproduction of a Leonard Catskill 47-4 by Mark Edmonds!!! 6.5 feet,3 piece,1 tip for a DT4 weight line.The perfect small stream rod-perfectly balanced and delicate.Beautiful birdseye maple reelseat, jewel-like fittings and clear silk wraps-all hallmarks of the gorgeous and understated Catskill series.

New

 

Vintage Midge, 72', #4, 4 3/4 oz, 2 pices/2 tips, medium. Nickel silver D/L. Gold with red, gold and black trim wraps. A very unusual, high quality rod with nickel silver hardware and winding check and deluxe guide wrappings. Appears 1930's vintage. Unusual 2-piece configuration for this era. Delicate small grip. Unusual reelseat stamped Pat. No.1879795, has elliptical shaped sliding ring for reel foot. Very delicate butt section without a wimpy cast action. Ring fly keeper. Agate tiptop on one tip section, common during this era. 2nd tip has 2" overwrap about mid-section. Slight chip in side of butt female ferrule but does not appear to affect strenght of ferrule. The varnish is becoming soft from age and show bag marks on all sections.  This rod is in fine condition except for the varnish. Fishable as is but should be polished or even refinished. A delightful fishing rod worth the time and effort to restore to former glory.  

Good/Very Good  condition

 

B.F. Nichols, 9', 2 pieces/1 tip. Butt marked 'B. F. Nichols Maker Boston Mass. Rattan grip. Varnish rough and some rewaps. No bag, no  tube. Technically the condition is rated as only fair, but I think it really is better than that. Looks to be in better shape than a lot  of newer rods you might see in garage sales. 

Very Good condition

 

B.F. Nichols, 10'9", 3 pieces/2 tips one is 1 inch short, Calcutta cane and flip-ring guides. The butt is marked "B.F. Nichols Maker Boston Mass". Rattan handle and all N/S reel seat in very good condition. There is a swelled butt near one inch in diameter. Rod comes in a wooden form case. An intresting piece of angling histoy to collect.

Very Good condition

 

Waring N.K., 11', 3 pieces, 2 mids, 4 tips. all of the wood portion is solid.no splits or gouges that I can see.as far as I can tell,and what the owner of this rod has told me ,it appears to be untouched‑un‑repaired. I have had the rod heavily researched by three professionals. They have all come up between 1500 and 2500 in their estimates.  There's 4 of these rods known and mine is probably the most original and complete at 120 years old.  Super rare N.K. Waring Fly Rod circa 1880. This rod is featured in the Sept. 2000 NFLCC Gazette with historical references. This rod is an 8 strip construction cane rod with a rattan wrapped handle butt section. The Serial #262 appears on all sections, and twice on the case. The case is a heavy canvas bag over grooved hardwood. All guides are flip rings including the stripping guide. All sections are the same length and original and the rod is in excellent condition for its age. The rod was examined and originally restored with the original hardware and correct silk by the famous restorer Francis D. Lyons. The hardwood form was restored to original too. This is a fabulous piece and a collector=s dream. 

Originally restored

 

Hiram Hawes & Co., 9', 3pieces/1 tip, 5.15 oz(146g). N/S reel seat, wasted ferrules. Marked on reel seat AH.W. HAWES & CO MAKERS, ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO, SOLE AGENTS, NEW YORK@. Sold by Abbie & Imbrie 1920-1935. Built by the master craftman who made the Leonard Co. famous. He continuosly developed new tapers and few tournament casters have ever come close to the staggering array of records he set. This rod is remarkably beautiful with a long delicate taper and the highest possible degree of rodmaking precision. Original finish, bag and tube.

Very Good condition

 

Kosmic H.A. Whittemore & Co, Boston. 10', 3 pieces/2 tips, 6.38 oz(181g). Serial# 2932. This Kosmic is in original condition with the original English-twist snake guides. All sections are straight and full length. All wraps, metalwork, varnish, guide  rings, tiptops, and cork are in remarkable shape for a rod built over 100 years ago. Rod features an ivoriod reel seat, nickel‑silver ferrules with 1890 patent dates, and red and black silk.

Kosmic rods were built between 1890-1898. From 1890-1891 by “The Thomas, Edwards & Hawes Co and between 1891-1898 by “The Thomas. Edwards & Payne”. The rod makers were earlier Leonard employees, Fred Thomas, Eustis Edwards, and Loman Hawes (1891 replaced by Edward Payne). The A.G. Spalding Co were their major retail outlet until 1895 when the partners sold out to U.S. Net and Twine. Their rods were then retailed by The Wilkinson Co, H.A. Whittemore & Co and the E.G. Koenig Co. Payne remained in charge of production until 1898 This rod is marked AThe Kosmic@ AWhittemore & Co@, which probably places it close to 1898 because of the snake guides.This rod is most certainly made by Edward Payne. It has his signature windings on butt. This rod is very very rare to find especially as it is built by Edward Payne. This rod is a must for a serious collector. Cane tip tube.

Very Good condition

 

Kosmic H.A. US Net and Twine.  11', 3 pieces/3 tip, x oz(xg). Serial#2616. Butt ferrule is 22/64", tip ferrule is 15/64, tips are a slender 5.5/64" at the base of the tiptop. This Kosmic is in original condition with the original loose-ring guides. All sections, including three original tips are straight and full length. All wraps, metalwork, varnish, guide  rings, tiptops, and cork are in remarkable shape for a rod built over 100 years ago.

Kosmic rods were built between 1890-1898. From 1890-1891 by “The Thomas, Edwards & Hawes Co and between 1891-1898 by “The Thomas. Edwards & Payne”. The rod makers were earlier Leonard employees, Fred Thomas, Eustis Edwards, and Loman Hawes (1891 replaced by Edward Payne). The A.G. Spalding Co were their major retail outlet until 1895 when the partners sold out to U.S. Net and Twine. Their rods were then retailed by The Wilkinson Co, H.A. Whittemore & Co and the E.G. Koenig Co. Payne remained in charge of production until 1898. This rod is marked AThe Kosmic@ AUS Net and Twine@, which probably places it just after 1894 because of the loose-ring guides. Here is an heirloom‑quality rod from America=s best team of rod builders. Comes with protective bag and aluminum tube, not original.

Excellent condition

 

F. Divine, 82', #4-5, 3 pieces/2 tips, 4.4 oz(125g), s/n R2096. All sections are the same length. Nice cherry stained wood insert, decal stating Divine Rod Company, Utica N.Y., The sliding band and end cap are nickel silver.  The varnish looks to be excellent. The grip is a full wells grip. Red wraps with black ends at the ferrules. From the label type this is a late serie Divine rod, around 1928. The R stands for "Rainbow" which was a line of rods that started 1920‑23.

Excellent condition

 

F. Divine, 92=, #5-6, 3 pieces/2 tips, 5.8 oz(166 g), s/n H9009. made by F.D.Divine,Utica,NY, c.1920's, with the original canvas bag and metal tube.It is 9'7" long;each section is 39"long & in very good original condition.It appears to not have been used, except that the cork does have some circular marks where a reel has been secured with a very slight indentation there,but it is unstained.collection. The ferrules do not have any dents, splits,or bends. The eye near the ferrule on the first section has been professionally replaced,one can only see this with very close inspection. 

Excellent condition

 

Vom Hofe, Edward. 9ft, 3pieces/2tips. Edward vom Hofe is well known for his highly finished trout and salmon reels. Yet his inventiveness did not stop at reels, but carried into rods as well. He put an effort in making all his reels and rods into esthetical and technical masterpieces. Edward did never cut down on quality to sell more to the masses as did his brother Julius Vom Hofe. These beautifully crafter rods were built 1880-1890 and were indeed very fine fishing instruments with impressive tapers which allowed the rod to load well down into the lower portion of the butt, while still retaining a good, moderately strong tip making it a medium fast rod not common of rods from this era where tapers often were soft wet-fly style. Not many rods were built compared to the number of reels so they are very rarely seen today.

This rod has a N/S reelseat marked “Edward Vom Hofe Maker” at the base and a very beautiful rattan handle. Red windings tipped black. Everything seems to be original on this rod. All sections are the same length. All windings, intermediate windings, guides and ferrules are there. No splitting or hook diggs in the bamboo. Just as beautiful as can be.

Excellent condition

 

Chubb, 9', 3pieces/2tips. All sections are full length. No markings. Starting at the bottom: Very unusual for a rod of this era, the reel seat is aluminum with nickel silver butt cap and sliding band. Sheet cork grip. Nickel Silver winding check. Honey colored Calcutta shaft. Red wraps tipped green. Full intermediates alternate red and green. Loose ring guides. Shoulderless, waisted, pinned, rolled welt nickel silver ferrules with seams. Simple loop style tip tops with the loop sticking straight up rather than at an angle. This rod is in remarkably good and original condition. As such the varnish has bag marks and some heat deterioration and some of the wraps are dry and need an overcoat, but considering this rod was probably produced in the 1890's it is in remarkable shape. Comes on original cloth covered form case with metal end caps. A great old rod.  

Very Good condition

 

C.E. Wheeler, ca, 1880-1900, 102=, 3 pieces/2 tips, 9 1/8 oz(259g), flip rings. There is a very nice rattan grip and an old fashioned N/S raised rail down sliding reel seat. The rod is stamped on the reel seat: AC.E. WHEELER@ and below that AMAKER@. The mark is in a rectangular box with clip corners. The Butt section is 46" long with red agate stripping guide, The Mid section is 44" long which appears to be the correct length with "s" guides. The Tips  measure 43" and 35" each. The shorter looks to have been broken and repaired at the but end. This 4 piece bamboo fly rod comes complete with a Bamboo tip case, 48" long with a nice screw on brass cap. This rod is a very rare example of one of America=s most important builder who is beleived to be the first to deviate from the round to the hexagonal split bamboo rod. There are some loose intermediate wraps on the mid and butt sections. The tips are o.k. and all of the guides are intact and reasonably secure given the age. This is an antique rod very well preserved. 

Very Good condition

 

C.E. Wheeler,  82', 3 pieces/2 tips. Flip rings, Wheeler made some rods with six additional tapered, mortised cedar strips spliced into the grip area. The handle itself is cork. There are some loose threads on a few of the wraps. This vintage knockdown fly rod comes with 2 tip sections and all fits into fitted compartments on a olive‑drab velvet covered cylinder. This cylinder has cloth tie‑downs which holds all 4 sections of the rod in place, the whole package is then slid into a canvas sleeve. The canvas sleeve is stained and has some holes. The cylinder mount is also stained with some wear but it still has its nickel caps and everything is there!. Wheeler produced quite a lot of rods (about 5.500) in his most productive period 1875‑1915. He is beleived to be the first builder to deviate from the round rod. 

Good condition

 

John Krider(?), 10'4"/9'9", 3 pieces/4 tips, 8 3/8 oz(238g). Old Calcutta Fly Rod 1870-80. 2 tips full length assembles to a 10"4" rod, the other 2 to a 9'9" rod. The tip top of one of the shorter sections is missing and a few wraps are loose. Flip rings, a rattan grip, a beautiful swelled butt and spiked ferrules. The rod is allmost stright as an arrow in spite of its age and there are numerous intermediate wraps on the beautiful colored Calcutta cane. This is a fabulous rod in very nice condition. An example of the very good handcraft from these early years. Comes in a beautiful wooden case and canvas bag that seem original. Some of the intermediate wraps are loose or gone, but all hardware are there. 

Very Good condition

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pritchard Bamboo Rod, 72=, 3 pieces/2 tips. Extremely rare old Pritchard split bamboo flyrod, "Patent Dec. 13th 1881" on grip, probably all original, The APatent Dec. 13th 1881" inscription on the grip of this rod, identifies it as a Henry Pritchard rod. There is a dark brown ridged grip that is made of hard celluloid. I'm not certain of the reel seat material, but I think plated brass. The ferrules appear sound and original, but have a very slight tiny "wiggle." The wraps are tatty and poor looking. The snake guides are mostly missing. The cane segments are intact, no separations or hook digs. I'm quite sure it's a collector's item, though of course it could be renewed and fished. The tip is 1 1/2 inches shorter than the other two sections which measure right at 31 1/4 inches overall, from end of ferrule to end of ferrule. The tip does not show any "repair," and the tiptop appears original, but I can't say for sure. The rod assembled measures almost exactly 7 1/2 feet. The molded form is made for a 7 1/2 foot rod. Truly vintage rods of this length are extremely rare. 

Very Good condition

 

Pritchard Bamboo Rod, 82ft, 3 pieces/2 tips. Pre‑1888 patent Henry Pritchard Bamboo Rod. This museum piece was built by a New York rod maker with much history. All sections are full length and this rod features the famous celluloid grip with the December 13, 1881 patent date. Folding ring line guides. Nickeled brass hardware, unusual aluminum reel seat spacer and wood form case covered with blue cloth. Ole Henry was an inventive man, reportedly he held the 5th U.S. Patent in 1859 for a line guide design. One tip top appears to have been replaced with a later piece. To find a Pritchard in such good condition is a rare find. Rare short length and surprisingly modern feel. A few  wraps are frayed. 

Excellent condition

Pritchard Bamboo Rod, 10ft, 3 pieces/2 tips. This bamboo fly rod was made by Henry Pritchard, 94 Fulton St., New York, NY, circa 1888. Rod is in outstanding condition. It has a hard-rubber reel-seat-handle which is stamped with the December 13, 1881 patent date. The sliding ring for the reel seat has the January 10, 1888 patent date. Both of these stampings are sharp and seen clearly. The guides are the early flip-ring type, the first guide on the butt section is missing. The wrapings are dark red or maroon, as are the intermediate windings, and in excellent condition. All but three or four out of more than one hundred of the intermediate windings are missing. The spiked ferrules which have metal ferrule plugs and the other metal fittings are believed to be German Silver (Nickel Silver) which have developed a patina over more than a century. The rod comes in the original fitted felt covered wooden case. This is a museum quality antique fly rod from the 19 th century worthy of a place in an advanced collection.

Excellent+ condition

 

Aber. & Fitch Lancewood Flyrod, 102=, 3 pieces/2 tips, 7.78 oz(221g) This is a very rare rod as it is still absolutely complete with no broken tips, repairs or exchanged parts. Comes with the original wooden holder. The cork handle, eyelets, and metal are excellent. The color of the rod is a rich, mellow yellow/brown. A couple of the wrappings are a little frayed, but nothing to detract. Found with a marked Abercrombie & Fitch flyrod in an estate, the owner stated [not to me] both were bought there. I can't imagine a more beautiful and unique rod. 

Excellent condition