Mitchell, a Class by Itself

The world renowned Mitchell spinning reel, first produced in France, has become the most collected fishing reel to have ever been produced. It has been documented that the date of manufacture for the first production Mitchell reel was produced in 1939. It was the very first reel of its type recognizable as an egg-shaped, open-faced spinning reel and was marketed to the public in 1939. Over the years these reels evolved with few major changes from year to year. The chapters of this book will address some of these changes in hopes that young collectors might become more familiar with the early Mitchell reel that would eventually evolve into the Mitchell 300 and 301. This book is not intended to be a definitive record of identification but an informative resource of observations. My hope is that many will gain knowledge of the famous Mitchell and become enthusiasts involved in the hobby of collecting these unmatched works of technology. New and old collectors and enthusiasts alike will find this book a great resource with tons of pictures and information addressing maintenance, servicing, restoration and refinishing of Mitchell reels, restoration, repair and refinishing of vintage boxes, finding resources for purchasing reels, repair and replacement parts, displays, documentaries, historical pieces and informative journals. There are many different types and manufacturers of fishing reels with many different choices for the collector but in my opinion there is no better choice for a collectable reel than the indestructible Mitchell. These reels are plentiful and affordable for the most part. Yet there are very rare reels for the enthusiast with a deep pocket and a strong passion. Many reels are available with the old original boxes and literature. I have found it extremely satisfying to repair and restore these original boxes, just as much as working on the reels themselves. I have been able to pick up a few pieces off of ebay that many others passed on because of the appearance and damage of these boxes. I will share some of the techniques used in repairing these pieces in the pages of this book. I will also go into servicing a reel, doing repairs, refurbishing and refinishing reels. I have over forty years experience in the automobile restoration industry and have found the knowledge gained in that profession to be very helpful in the restoration of these reels. There is much debate over if a reel is more valuable as an original or as a restored piece. For me, that all depends on the rarity of the reel and the shape that the reel is in when you obtain it. This thought process is very similar to collectable automobiles. It is kind of up to the owners as to what you wish to do. A collection of Mitchell reels can be as inexpensive or as elaborate as you care to build it. It is totally up to you how far you wish to go, how much you wish to spend, and how involved you choose to become with other collectors. Regardless of what level you choose, the past-time of collecting the Mitchell will be extremely gratifying. So get out there to those estate sales, yard sales, flea markets, antique malls and pawn shops or get those computers heated up while scrolling online and begin your own collection of Mitchell reels!