Vintage Orvis Fly Reel, original patented (1874).

Description

The globally famous Orvis 1874 patented fly reel reel (patent # 150,883) is the first modern American fly reel. Invented by Charles F. Orvis in 1874, founder of the Orvis Company. According to the acclaimed and foremost fly reel historian, Jim Brown...this patented reel became the "benchmark of modern reel design." The Orvis reel is mounted upright, has a narrow spool, and has ventilated side-plates (unheard of at the time) —all features present in most of today’s models.
The earliest iteration of this sought after fly reel did not have a clicking sound (1874-1879). This is the second iteration (circa 1880-1885) and does have the clicking sound we all long to hear.
Only the earliest Orvis reels came with the black walnut case with a hinged lid as shown. The crank handle was removable and fits into its own compartment. Later versions came with a cardboard box (circa 1895-1899). This reel could have the original fly line...but I can't say that with certainty.
According to the American Museum of Fly-Fishing...
no reel collection is complete without the Charles Orvis patented fly reel, 1874.
On Aug-01-21 at 17:46:59 PDT, seller added the following information:
Please examine the pictures closely...this item is very old and not in perfect condition.