Bamboo Fly Rod restoration

Question
I have a 9ft Bill Stanley's Favorite left to me by my Dad.As far as I can find out it was made in the mid to late 30's. It is in pretty bad shape (i.e.)the cork handle is fallinf apart, needs new guides, but the rod its self seems to be in good shape with the exception of needing refinished. My question is, would it be worth more for me to have it restored or sell it as is? I am to old and physcially unable to fish with it any more.

Answer
Hi Phillip,

In the condition you describe, the rod is worth about $100...assuming all the sections are full length and you have the bag and tube that came with it.

Restoring the rod is going to run you $250-$350 depending on what work is actually needed.

When restored, the rod is going to be valued in the $400-$600 range.

It is kind of a wash, you can get the work done and get our money back or sell it and let the new owner pay for the restoration.  Either way, you will probably net the same amount...maybe a little more if the restoration ob is a good one.

If you decide to restore it, send me some pictures and I'll give you a bid on the work.

Thanks,  Joe