GOOD USEABLE RARE VINTAGE CIRCA 1911／12 HARDY 4＂ UNIQUA SALMON FLY FISHING REEL
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# **How to Choose a Good, Usable, Rare Vintage Circa 1911/12 Hardy 4″ Uniqua Salmon Fly Fishing Reel**
For serious collectors and anglers, few fishing reels hold as much prestige as the **Hardy Uniqua Salmon Fly Reel**. Produced in the early 20th century (circa 1911/12), this 4-inch model is a masterpiece of British engineering, combining durability, elegance, and historical significance. However, finding a **good, usable, and authentic** vintage Hardy Uniqua requires careful consideration. In this guide, we’ll explore key factors to help you choose the best specimen for your collection or fishing adventures.
## **1. Authenticity: Verifying the Reel’s Provenance**
Due to its rarity, counterfeit or misrepresented Hardy Uniqua reels occasionally appear in the market. To ensure authenticity:
– **Check the Engraving:** Original Hardy Uniqua reels from this era feature crisp, hand-engraved lettering (“Hardy Bros. Alnwick”) and a serial number. Fakes often have shallow or machine-cut engravings.
– **Examine the Foot Design:** Early models have a **fixed round line guard** and a **tapered reel foot** designed for bamboo rods. Later reproductions may have slight variations.
– **Material & Weight:** Authentic reels are made from **hardened aluminum alloy**, giving them a distinct weight and feel. Beware of overly lightweight or modern-looking alloys.
## **2. Condition: Balancing Collectibility & Usability**
A truly “usable” vintage reel should still function smoothly while retaining its historical charm. Look for:
– **Minimal Corrosion:** Light patina is expected, but deep rust or pitting can affect performance.
– **Intact Drag System:** The **check mechanism** (a simple pawl-and-spring system) should engage smoothly without excessive wobble.
– **Original Parts:** Replacement screws or modified components decrease value. The **ivory handle knob** (if present) should show age-appropriate yellowing, not cracks.
## **3. Rarity & Desirability**
The **1911/12 Hardy Uniqua Salmon Reel** is particularly sought after due to:
– **Pre-WWI Craftsmanship:** Hardy reels from this era were handmade with unparalleled attention to detail.
– **Limited Production:** Few reels survived a century of use, making intact examples rare.
– **Salmon Fishing Heritage:** The 4″ size was designed for large salmon and sea trout, appealing to traditional fly fishermen.
## **4. Where to Buy & Price Considerations**
Due to its rarity, expect to pay **$1,500–$4,000+** depending on condition. Trusted sources include:
– **Specialist Auction Houses** (e.g., Mullocks, Lang’s)
– **Reputable Vintage Tackle Dealers**
– **Collector Forums & Facebook Groups** (always request provenance documentation)
## **Final Thoughts**
A **1911/12 Hardy 4″ Uniqua Salmon Reel** is more than just a fishing tool—it’s a piece of angling history. Whether you’re a collector or an angler who appreciates vintage craftsmanship, choosing a **well-preserved, authentic, and functional** reel ensures you own a treasure that will last generations.
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