Milward's IMPROVED ZEPHYR, 4'', C.1924 Spectacular condition and very free running. The 'Improved Zephyr' was a top quality pattern incorporating the highest quality materials, invented and first produced by iconic reel maker David Slater c.1904 when it was available in either 3 ¾'' or 4 ¼'' and described by Slater as “The leader of ALL reels for bottom fishing and float casting; it's chief advantages are it's lightness together with strength and it's ease of starting”. In that year it won three 1st prizes at the International Casting Tournament prompting winner, Mr F. W. K. Wallis to write “I am now more than ever convinced your reels have no equal. As you see I was first in the float casting, any style, - 235ft.; 1 ½ drachm....” .
In 1922, after Slater's death, the company was acquired by Henry Milward who seems to have rationalised the offering to just one size, 4''. Thus it is believed this reel dates just from the post 1922 period. It is in stunning condition with nicely figured walnut front flange and spool with dome shaped ebonite handles seated on eliptical brass plates with untouched brass screws, an aluminium centre boss with brass float screw on elevated bell shaped housing, brass 'Slater latch' spool release catch with four brass retaining screws (which look as if they have never been removed), aluminium backplate with brass foot and check button operating a brass caliper check with brass pawl, the caliper secured by two stout copper fixing pins and the inside back inscribed 'XXI' which would have denoted the individual maker whose output (for payment/bonus purposes) was thus recorded.
The reel is in exceptionally fine condition with no visible damage at all. It would be difficult to envisage a better example and is quite likely the best in existence. Still a great joy to use as it approaches it's cententary and attractively priced.
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