Trying to date granddad's old St John

[PaddyontheMask]

Hi folks. Shameless almost-new-poster asking for help! I'm about to tackle converting my granddad's old reel into LHW by modifying the spring and potentially the pawl, but prior to any work I'd quite like to date the reel, if possible. I've had a rummage around previous posts but thought asking outright might also produce some wisdom from you lot, as well as giving me the opportunity to share a couple of pics of this very pretty reel.

Wishing you all a peaceful weekend,

Paddy

[SpringCreek]

It would be helpful to see the interior of the reel for any makers initials, however the reel was made between 1927 and WWII. It has circular stamping on the back and a ribbed foot. The ribbed foot was used from 1927 on, and the circular writing was used through World War II.

Jim

[PaddyontheMask]

Thanks Jim. Only marking I can find is '32'. Could it be as simple as 1932?
Interesting position of the line wear too, for what seems to be a right - hand - only winding reel.

[SpringCreek]

Thanks for sharing the additional photos. The "32" is simply a part stamp used to keep specific parts identified through the building process. Unfortunately it doesn't help date it.

Best of luck

Jim

[3wt monte]

Welcome to the forum, Paddy. Regarding the line groove, it looks like the reel was fished “rings up” (i.e., with the rod held so that the reel and line is above the rod, rather than hanging below), still reeling right-handed….Monte

[PaddyontheMask]

Thanks for sharing the additional photos. The "32" is simply a part stamp used to keep specific parts identified through the building process. Unfortunately it doesn't help date it.

Best of luck

Jim

Thanks Jim! Shame about the lack of detail. You'd have thought they could have a least put a QR code on it somewhere, but I can't seem to find it. Not to worry. It's a very satisfying piece of machining to hold in the hand. I'm worried this might grow into a collection.

Paddy

[PaddyontheMask]

Welcome to the forum, Paddy. Regarding the line groove, it looks like the reel was fished “rings up” (i.e., with the rod held so that the reel and line is above the rod, rather than hanging below), still reeling right-handed….Monte

Funny how pretty much everything's changed in the ensuing 80 years. Rings down, line running to other side of reel, dominant hand holding the rod rather than winding. I wonder what other bizarre stuff they got up to...

[Seabowisha Salmo T]

Welcome to the forum, Paddy. Regarding the line groove, it looks like the reel was fished “rings up” (i.e., with the rod held so that the reel and line is above the rod, rather than hanging below), still reeling right-handed….Monte

Funny how pretty much everything's changed in the ensuing 80 years. Rings down, line running to other side of reel, dominant hand holding the rod rather than winding. I wonder what other bizarre stuff they got up to...

well, some brave souls attempted to drive their XK 120's after dark.
regards, jim w

[Brian K. Shaffer]

It is a more desirable model as well - due to the addition of a brake.
That brake is the drag system.