Collecting Old Or Antique Mitchell Reels
If you are an avid angler or a reel collector, you might have come across the name Mitchell. Mitchell reels are one of the most popular brands in the fishing industry. The company was founded in 1948 and has been producing reels ever since. Collecting old or antique Mitchell reels can be a rewarding hobby for fishing enthusiasts. In this article, we will discuss the history of Mitchell reels, how to identify old or antique Mitchell reels, and some tips for collecting them.
The History of Mitchell Reels
Mitchell reels were first introduced in France by a man named Maurice Jacquemin. He was a fishing enthusiast who was looking for a better reel design. Jacquemin created the first Mitchell reel in 1948, and it quickly gained popularity among anglers in France. In 1952, the Mitchell 300 was introduced, and it became the company's most popular model. The Mitchell 300 was known for its durability, reliability, and smooth drag system. Mitchell reels were later introduced to the United States in the 1960s and quickly became a favorite among American anglers.
Identifying Old or Antique Mitchell Reels
Old or antique Mitchell reels can be identified by their serial numbers. The serial number can be found on the bottom of the reel foot. The first two digits of the serial number represent the year the reel was manufactured. For example, if the serial number starts with "57," the reel was made in 1957. The next two digits represent the month of production. For example, "03" represents March. The last two digits represent the production number for that month. For example, "05" means it was the fifth reel made that month.
Old or antique Mitchell reels are also distinguished by their design. The early Mitchell reels had a round body and were made of aluminum. Later models featured a more rectangular body and were made of graphite. The older models also had a wooden handle, while the newer models had a plastic handle. The older models also had a simple drag system, while the newer models had a more advanced system.
Tips for Collecting Old or Antique Mitchell Reels
Collecting old or antique Mitchell reels can be a fun and rewarding hobby, but it can also be challenging. Here are some tips for collecting old or antique Mitchell reels:
- Research the history of Mitchell reels to understand the different models and their features.
- Attend fishing shows, auctions, and estate sales to find old or antique Mitchell reels.
- Check online marketplaces and auction sites for old or antique Mitchell reels.
- Inspect the reel carefully for any damage or signs of wear.
- Look for reels that are still in their original packaging or with their original paperwork.
- Consider purchasing a reel that has been professionally restored.
- Join a reel collectors club or forum to connect with other collectors and learn more about Mitchell reels.
Conclusion
Collecting old or antique Mitchell reels can be a fun and rewarding hobby for fishing enthusiasts. Mitchell reels have a rich history and are known for their durability and reliability. Identifying old or antique Mitchell reels can be done by checking the serial number and examining the design. To collect old or antique Mitchell reels, research the history, attend fishing shows and auctions, inspect the reels for damage, and consider joining a collector's club. With patience and persistence, you can build a valuable collection of Mitchell reels.
