Hardy - Perfect 3 1/8" 1896 Check Fly Reel - Refinished

For sale here is an 1896 check Hardy 3 1/8" Perfect reel in excellent, refinished condition. The reel features an ivorine handle with knurled receiver, strap-over tensioner and rod-in-hand logo stamped on the winding plate. Nickel silver retainer screw, straight pillars and 4-cusp spool. The 1896 checkwork has a flat caliper spring and retains a very strong click throughout its range. The reel was refinished at some point by a competent professional. The smooth alloy foot is a replacement, and the reel appears to have been completely buffed and re-leaded. The stamping around the brass spindle pin on the winding plate is very faint, although the rod-in-hand remains nice and clear. One screw on the tensioner is damaged, but stable, and there is a rough spot on the frame near the reel foot, most likely a casting imperfection. A RHW reel weighing 5.8oz. These very early contracted alloy perfects are rather rare, and many examples end up on the shelf as part of a larger collection. If you're looking for a quality example that you can fish comfortably, this is the reel for you. A fine user, ready for service.