R.L.WINSTON Vintage Reel 5／6 with wooden box
Jeff Smith The R.L. Winston Vintage Reel 5/6 with a wooden box is a classic fly fishing reel, likely from the mid-to-late 20th century. Winston, known primarily for its high-quality bamboo and graphite fly rods, also produced reels that are now sought after by collectors and vintage tackle enthusiasts.
Key Features:
– Size: 5/6 weight, suitable for medium-sized trout and freshwater fishing.
– Construction: Likely made of durable aluminum or brass with a simple drag system (possibly a click-and-pawl mechanism).
– Wooden Box: Original wooden storage boxes add significant collectible value, often lined with felt or foam.
– Design: Classic styling with Winston branding, possibly engraved or stamped.
Collectibility & Value:
– Condition Matters: Reels in excellent working order with minimal wear, original finish, and an intact wooden box command higher prices.
– Rarity: Earlier Winston reels (pre-1980s) are less common and more desirable.
– Market Value: Depending on age and condition, these reels can range from $150–$500+ (with box and paperwork increasing value).
Authenticity Check:
– Look for “R.L. Winston” or “Winston” markings on the reel foot or backplate.
– Early models may have “Made in San Francisco” or “Twin Bridges, MT” (Winston’s historic locations).
– Compare with known vintage Winston reel models (e.g., “Winston Perfect”-style reels).
Where to Find More Info:
– Books: “Vintage Fishing Reels” by Steve Vernon or “The History of the Fly Rod” by Dick Spurr.
– Forums/Websites: Classic Fly Rod Forum, Fiberglass Flyrodders, or eBay sold listings for pricing trends.
If you own this reel, it’s a great piece of fishing history! Would you like help assessing its condition or era?
The R.L. Winston Vintage Reel 5/6 with a wooden box is a classic fly fishing reel, likely from the mid-to-late 20th century. Here’s what you should know about it:
Key Features:
1. Brand & Era:
– R.L. Winston is a prestigious American fly fishing brand, best known for its bamboo and high-end graphite rods.
– Vintage Winston reels (especially from the 1960s–1980s) are collectible, often made in collaboration with other reel manufacturers (like Hardy or Scientific Anglers).
2. Reel Size (5/6):
– Designed for 5-weight or 6-weight fly lines, suitable for medium-sized trout and freshwater fishing.
– Typically a single-action reel (1:1 retrieve ratio) with a simple drag system (often a click-and-pawl mechanism).
3. Wooden Box:
– Original Winston reels sometimes came in handcrafted wooden boxes (often cedar or mahogany), adding to their collectibility.
– The box may feature branding, felt lining, or a serial number.
4. Materials & Construction:
– Frame & Spool: Likely made of aluminum (anodized or painted) for lightweight durability.
– Handle: May have an ebony or plastic knob.
– Drag: Classic spring-and-pawl system (common in vintage reels).
Collectibility & Value:
– Condition Matters:
– Mint-condition reels with original packaging (wooden box, paperwork) fetch higher prices.
– Signs of wear (scratches, missing paint, drag issues) lower value.
– Market Value:
– Depending on rarity and condition, these reels can sell for $150–$500+ among collectors.
– Limited editions or reels with provenance (e.g., owned by famous anglers) command premium prices.
Authenticity Check:
– Look for Winston branding (engraved or stamped on the reel foot/spool).
– Compare with catalog archives (Winston has changed designs over the years).
– Some vintage Winston reels were rebranded from Hardy or SA reels—research the exact model.
Where to Sell/Buy:
– eBay, Fly Fishing Forums, or Specialty Auctions (like Lang’s).
– Vintage Tackle Shops may appraise or offer restoration services.
Would you like help identifying a specific model or era? If you have photos, I can provide more detailed insights!