1ST VERSION GARCIA MITCHELL 400 REEL IN MATCHING SN BOX
 |
1ST VERSION GARCIA MITCHELL 400 REEL IN MATCHING SN BOX Closing : Mar-22-08 16:05:00 PDT CLICK HERE TO BID! |
GARCIA MITCHELL 400
1ST VERSION COMPLETE
"With Matching SN Box and Paperwork"
"In the true spirit of any collector who likes to get others to join in the fun,
I’m starting this Item at only 99 cents with NO RESERVE!”
"The Beginning of the Midnight Blues"
This is a 1962/63 First Version Dark “Midnight” Blue Garcia Mitchell 400 Made in France with serial number 3929655 on the foot and partially missing on her original box. This serial number, old style baffle plate and packaging dates this reel back to 1962/63. The serial numbers on the 400 ran in numeric sequence with the Mitchell 300 and 350 series reels of the time.
This reel was advertised; “The 400 has replaced the 350 model” but of course, that never happened. Besides the serial number, the easiest way to tell a first version 400 is the tiny hole in the anti-reverse lever. Also note the screw type handle shank without a screw slot on the counterweight, the black bail rubber bumper and the four star drag; all of which changed later in the sixties.
The picture on the owner’s manual shows this reel but with a 300 series style bail wire and a trip-lever that has the old style “teeth”. If that reel was made, it would date these at least two years older. I believe this “mysterious” reel was only an artist’s rendition just like they did on most Mitchell reels of the fifties and early sixties.
This reel has been lightly used but very well preserved. There are a few scratches and a small chips on the foot as you can see in the pictures. She’s mechanically strong and still secure in her sturdy original box. From my personal collection, I always guarantee…
Related posts:
September 17th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
was this sold?
September 18th, 2008 at 2:40 pm
unfortunately yes. but you may want to look at this similar item.
http://www.oldreel.net/2008/09/19/old-mitchell-410-special-reel-unused-mint-in-box/