Shakespeare Magnesium Int'l 2853 Fly Reel

Description

Shakespeare designed and imported the "International Series" of reels in four sizes during the late 1970s and early 1980's.    This one is the largest, the 3 5/8" reputedly manufactured by Young in England.  The reels were wholly machined from Magnesium Bar Stock, among the first for that time.  They were expensive, but were very light and strong to match up to the ultra light weight graphite rods emerging into the market.  This one weighs 5.7 oz or 162 grams complete with line and backing.
These reels are approaching "rare" status, with an almost cult following of avid fly fisherman seeking all four sizes.  This example is in excellent condition.  Used, but very little.  In the original vinyl case and packing, with paperwork.   Has backing and WF-7 Wet Cell line installed.