Allcock Unventilated Aerial 5101-T1 4”

Introduced in 1900, this model had the same spool as the Coxon Aerials of the period. It was the first model with an aluminium back. Its tapered horn handles and lack of tension adjuster indicate that it was made c1900-1910. Production of this model ran from 1900-1916.

Condition report.

The strong but lightweight ebonite spool flanges, hollow nickel sliver line pins and exceptionally well figured tapered horn handles make for a very light spool. The fine, straight spindle and phosphor-bronze spool hub, with no play or wear, result in an exceptionally free running reel. 

This reel’s brass foot, stamped PATENT on its front edge, retains most of its original protective lacquer. These early reels had four counter sunk nickel sliver screws securing the foot to the back. This foot is perfect.

The plain back retains much of its original leaded finish. The rim of the back and its interior were polished and lacquered on these early versions.

The factory fitted brass BP line guard (with nickel silver bars) is mounted so that the reel can be used ambidextrously and its check has no bias. This is a lovely feature.

The spool’s nickel silver spokes are straight and clean. The spool release mechanism works perfectly. The spool itself runs perfectly, with no play or wobble. It’s absolutely outstanding for a reel made before 1910.

The spool’s width between flanges is 13/16”

The superb tapered horn handles are straight and free turning.

The sweet calliper check is crisp and operated via the brass button on the reel’s back.

I don’t expect to see another early aluminium backed ebonite drum Aerial as lovely as this one.

The star of any collection, surely, and a reel for the purist to float fish with. Simply magnificent!

*From the collection of the late Andrew Pattison.