Steven of Berwick (upon Tweed) brass reel c 1870

Many of the tackle shops at the turn of the century used the term “Maker” loosely.

It’s common knowledge that the big tackle makers including Heatons and Smith and Wall, Mallochs etc. manufactured trade reels.

Initially blank, the shops or retailers could have their names stamped onto the reels, (or any tackle) so they appeared to be the “Maker”.

They may be the Maker of something, but not necessarily that thing! A little self-importance can go a long way.

The reel shown here is a brass crank winch reel stamped to the face “Steven of Berwick” in a typical Scottish shield logo. In fact the whole reel has a Scottish feel. That’s over-engineered, heavy, solid, loud check clickers with a steel feel.

The crank arm is substantial which is a wee bit over the top for a reel of only 2-5/8” diameter.

The check clicker sounds more like one used on a salmon reel than a trout model. The original handmade steel screws and pillars are all good, the reel is strong and will probably fish another 100 years.

Great collecting value at present and a good addition to any collection at £100-150 .