Extremely rare 1894 Constructed Hardy Bros Alnwick late transitional all brass Perfect salmon fly reel – one of the rarest size 5” dia (understood to be the only known example of this size with newly designed rim frame) fitted with the first new substantial bronze annular rim frame mounted onto 4x nickel silver cross drum pillars through to the scallop edged frame and back plate (from 1895 frames became less ornate and just concave). Also note the drum features the very rare 3x rows of graduated perforations – a change from the normal 2x rows. This reel retains much of the original finish featuring the makers Rod In Hand, Bordered Oval and straight line Hardy Pat stamp marks, and owners name – waisted brass foot, and strap over rim tension screw – early calliper check mechanism, open ball race c/w all the bronze bearings – this stunning reel retains nearly all the original finish and comes in fitted leather block “D” shaped case – this is really a one off reel and a chance of the life time to acquire what is understood to be the only known example of this size and construction Note: for further information see John Drewett “Hardy Bros The Masters The Men and Their Reels” p.128-129