This free spool
Sears Roebuck contract casting reel was sold on eBay in early April. The
collector who sent me the link suggested that perhaps this reel would be
the Bronson Invader of 2001. The Invader assumed astronomical prices
($200-400) in 2000.
One factor that enters into Sears "Ted Williams" line is the
crossover collecting interest from baseball collectors. The example sold
was described as "very clean, complete and works perfect. Reel has no rust, corrosion, pitting or brassing, shows 99.5% showroom fresh. Reel is model #535.39981 made in the USA and was distributed by Sears. Reel has freespool button in handle, star drag, counterweighted handle, beautiful spacers (no cracks or chips), strong clicker, levelwind, sculptured cross bars and more. Included are the original padded reel case in excellent condition, reel wrench and screwdriver, 3 different paper items and original box showing price of $22.50. Box has some water stains and grades fair, all else grades Excellent. Tough model reel to find in this condition, will only get better with age!"
The seller might be correct.
Final bid price was $185.00 on 4/1/01
