Another abbey and inbrie question

Question
Just obtained a 9' bamboo a%26I flyrod. I know this is a pretty long one but i planned to use it for steelhead. My questions are: It is marked w/ the # 3500 - does that give you any indication of dates, maker etc? Also, a possible value and a good source for restoration (if it deserves it) - wraps need redoing, some rust on the guides, reel seat has corrosion and some fading. I may decide to just shelve it but I'd bought it to fish with. Your thoughts and comments are always appreciated.

Answer
Tom
Could not read the model number ??26I
#3500 is not a usual model number but they were in business many years 1875-1930. A%26I did not build rods in-house; they contracted with several builders to produce the rods they sold.  If you can provide some additional data, I'll try to help identify the maker and the value of the rod.  

If you are asking for the id or value  of an old rod please give a complete description , send pictures especially labels or logos to me, [email protected] and a complete description including any of following that you can:
Is it? fly or casting rod ? Reel seat is below or above the cork handle ?
Check metal for id and patents ? What is it made of; bamboo ( flat sided# fiberglass or graphite # round#? Weight in oz? What is the diameter  #not circumference# of the rod above the handle? Where was it purchased ? What type of metal nickel-silver, tin, or chrome platted brass? A complete description of any logos or labels. Length of rod per section and number of sections. Total rod length.

There is a big range of quality for A&I from 30 to 400, according to Antique & Collectible  Fishing Rods: Identification & Value Guide Homel, Dan. 1997 #2nd edition 2000) add about 30% for age of book. I sold a similar restored Mills rod model eclipse  last year for $500.

Fishing Tackle: A Collector's Guide  Hardcover, 1991 Graham Turner supports that your rod is worth restoring , having a similar price to the Mills rod.

Classic & Antique Fly-Fishing Tackle: A Guide for Collectors & Anglers by A.J. Campbell  has a page or so on A&I history.

I restore rods , e-mail me [email protected] for an estimate , they are very reasonable rates.

Luck,
Mac

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