FRAUD ALERT: Fake Redifor Reels
By J.K. Garrett & L.P. Brooks
Observation: Recently a REDIFOR reel was offered for sale. The upper right quadrant of the head plate had extensive surface sanding which created a shallow depression.
Analysis:This reel, although described as a product of the REDIFOR Rod and Reel Co., Warren, OH, was actually a Pfluegar REDIFOR. Other aspects, to include patent information and patent numbers listed on the butt plate and end caps were identical to the Pflueger REDIFOR model.
Further analysis revealed what appear to be the remaining traces of the paws of the Pflueger Bulldog logo located over the letters "D" and "F" in the word REDIFOR on the headplate. Note the placement of the Pflueger Bulldog logo on the following picture:
now note the traces left of the Pflueger Bulldog logo on the reel below over the letters "D" and "F" in REDIFOR:
Note the picture above for the added counterfeit "Warren, OHIO" imprint. It is obviously a different application than the imprint above it.
Conclusion: Someone went to substantial trouble to disfigure this reel. Typically, an original REDIFOR reel carries with it a greater collectable value than the newer Pflueger REDIFOR Models.
Since the perpetrator of this fraud not only sanded off the Pflueger marking but also went to the trouble to make a "Warren, OHIO" stamp, it is likely there are other copies out there waiting for the unwary or novice buyer. We are ALL potentially vulnerable to such fraud, be it lure, reel or paper and the hobby we all love is so much diminished by its presence. Thanks for your attention.
1 comment:
Dear sir, I came across this article when researching an antique Redifor reel that I found whilst going through my Mother's estate. I believe that it belonged to my great uncle, who died in 1979. I am having difficulty in finding an appropriate value to assign to this reel. Any ideas what an original Redifor baitcasting reel is worth on the open market? This reel is approx 2.5 inches in diameter, and has a mechanism on the front that winds the line from side to side as you reel in. Everything appears to be functional, including the drag. On the side of the reel is the work BEETZSEL, a picture of a hooked fish with the words TRADE MARK inscribed on the body of the fish, and on the opposite side are stamped patent numbers from 1906 - 1918. Any assistance you could provide me in determining proper resale value to a collector who would appreciate this reel would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
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