QuestionQUESTION: Can you tell me the approximate value of a Winston Bamboo Fly Rod made in San Francisco. 8' Two piece, one tip. 4/5 weight. #7423 Good condition ?
Many thanks,
Bob
ANSWER: Bob,
Winston rod company is still in business , http://www.winstonrods.com/ on the web.
From that site it is a pre 1975 rod.
You might try http://www.codella.com/ for value.
But I recommend you call Winston 406.684.5674, for a date and e-mail me
[email protected] with the results. I don't think there is a date scheme imbedded in the serial number like many manufactures but they keep a list, not on on the computer or not shared anyway.
According to Antique & Collectable Fishing Rods: Identification & Value Guide by Homel, Dan. 1997; the 8 ft model RL Winston trout fly rod circa 1965, is valued at $165, 400 and $700 for poor, good, excellent condition respectively.
Luck,
mac
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: This is Scott S, and I have this rod for sale. Winston told me the rod was built in 1953, most likely by Doug Merrick. Does that change the value? Whats the difference between good and excellent?
Thanks.
AnswerBob,
Most people evaluate their bamboo fly rods as excellent but in fact they are usually poor. You can read about the exact criteria for various conditions in in Antique & Collectable Fishing Rods: Identification & Value Guide by Homel, Dan. 1997, p. 91. It is most of the lending libraries I have checked, in the USA.
But I will give you a quick view on the difference between good and excellent. Mint is unused so excellent means it has been fished only a few times, original bag and tube, no missing tips, fine original finish , no breaks, fractures dirt or wear . Good would be if it is still fishable, some repair , some finish failure and shows moderate use .
thanks for answering the results of the phone call, I was pretty sure there is no date information imbedded in the serial number.
Please provide feedback, nominations are appreciated.
Hope the condition descriptions help.
Luck, Mac
