C. F. Orvis, Manchester, VT
Charles Orvis patented his fly reel on May 12, 1874. The first model had the head-plate and tail-plate riveted on and was engraved on the bottom of the foot with his name. Reels made after the early 1900's had plates that were screwed together. The first model also came with a nice form fitting, hinged wooden box. He continually improved upon the reel and later models were screwed together. The reels are usually found made of nickel plated brass. The reel was also made of solid nickel silver (German silver) models and is considered scarce. The Charles F. Orvis company is still in business today making a wide range of quality tackle.
The ORVIS Fly Reel, circa 1910
The ORVIS Fly Reel and Wood Box, circa 1910