Hardy - The USA 3 1/8" Fly Reel

For sale here is a rare Hardy "The USA" 3 1/8" fly reel. Produced for 2 seasons, 1922-1923, the USA is a Uniqua variant with a "radio" silent brake mechanism. Designed to be RHW, the brake pad is designed to bear against the concave side of the spool and provide a degree of resistance. An interesting theory, although the soundness of the design is suspect, as evidenced by the short production run and relatively few examples that have surfaced. This one features a leaded finish, smooth brass foot (unaltered) and horeshoe latch. The Erinoid handle is practically seized, although it does turn with some effort. It seems this could be remedied without too much effort, but that will be a choice for the next custodian of this reel. The brake mechanism itself offers virtually no resistance. This could be from a worn-out brake pad, but I strongly suspect the brakes on these reels never were particularly effective. The reel packs into a card box and Selvyt bag; both are period correct. The USA reel is a bit of an oddity, but they are extremely scarce. A rare opportunity for the distinguished Hardy collector.