Question
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QUESTION: I asked for my dad's fishing rod when he passed away. I don't fish...yet. I pulled it out the other day and wanted to know if you could tell me its history and value. I have 4 images of the rod and tube it came in. Info on the label reads as follows (and matches what is on the rod itself):
Makers of fine fishing Tackle Since 1856
Orvis Impregnated Rod
Style "99"
Serial NO. 22695 (matches number on rod)
Length: 8.5' 2pc 15
Weight: 5 oz.
Line test: HCH
CHARLES F. ORVIS CO. INC
Manchester, Vermont
I looked in the Orvis serial number database, but it wasn't there. Any other ideas?
ANSWER: Barbara,
Orvis has and continues to make quality fly rods, yes they still making bamboo rods.
The serial number list is not all inclusive. Most of the Orvis rods I have heard about are not in it. I found that there are numbers that are close and give us a ball park hint at ID.
Numbers 2260 to 2266 , made in Jan 46, all impregnated or Bakelite 8.5 ft but 3 piece.
Nine foot rods are less valuable than short. Past 10 foot they are more valuable. 2 piece rods are more collectable than 3 piece rods.
Value: Price Book: Antique & Collectible Fishing Reels: Identification, Evaluation %26 Maintenance Homel, & Jellison. 1996.
Homel gives the Orvis 8 1/2' model Battenkill fly rod with an extra tip, 2 sections the value of $95, 200 and $395 for poor, good, excellent condition respectively.
I have heard if you call Orvis 888-235-9763, they have a non digital , paper source with more complete serial numbers. I have also heard that if you ask for a value they will put you off but if you ask for age, maker, and model then you will get some help. With that information I might be able to pin down more information. Style 99 is probably your model name.
I quote these books/sources written by respected researchers so you know I am not making it all up, But I include my experience as well.
It has taken me the best part of an hour to write this up , please take a few seconds to provide feedback. Please remember I am a volunteer , the feedback is the only result I get from doing this.
Luck,
Mac
Please provide feedback, nominations are appreciated.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Are 8.5' rods "rounded up" to 9'? Or are you saying that this 8.5' rod is more valuable than a 9' but not as valuable as a 10' or longer? What defines a "short" rod?
Thanks again for your timely response -- I appreciate it!
Barbara
AnswerBarbara,
A shorter rod is 7.5 footer or less. An average collectable rod is a 9 footer, speaking in a very general way, they can be less valuable especially with a common enough rod like Orvis .
Rods are not rounded up or down. 8.5 foot rod is shorter than a 9 foot rod and they usually sell for more.
Now big 2 handed rods, starting at 10 foot and up to 15 are a different species. There is a fad going for 2 handed rods and they are resaling for more than 9 foot rods.
I hope that is clearer- I am a much better restorer than typist
Luck,
Mac
