New York State has turned out quite a few side-mount reels that as yet have not been ID'd. I am always on the lookout for any information on these, and welcome any leads to who produced these fine reels. At least three on this page were made by the same maker, or so I believe. Advertisements were scarce - not many people stopping by the local news stand to pick up the latest issue of Rod-n-Reel back in the 1870's to 1880's!
Amazing quality, 36 rings, brass
Underside view - that's a drag you see!
Billinghurst copy - note the twin disks
Bottom view - clearly see the 2 disk construction
Solid construction, hard rubber grasp
Bottom view - that knurled nut is a drag adjuster
Very small, very early - solid handle,2" dia.
Bottom view
Another tiny reel, gold finish over brass, 2" dia.
Bottom view - spring acts as a drag
Another tiny sidemount, this one nickel over brass, 2" dia.
Bottom view - notice the foot design matches the 2 reels above
Brass side-mount - sort of an "Indiana style meets birdcage reel"
Bottom view - the spring acts as a drag
Very Early Unknown, 2 3/8" diameter
Bottom View
Early unmarked, 2 3/4" dia. spool, all brass
Bottom view
Tiny 2 5/8" dia, all aluminum, post 1950
Bottom view
I'm always interested in adding reels to my collection. If you have a reel you'd like to discuss, trade or sell please feel free to e-mail me at Jim@sidemountreels.com