Ambassadeur 6000 (1959-1961 model) Mint in Box

[Big-Bass]

Hi everyone,

I am looking to find the worth of a reel that I recently acquired.  The reel is an Abu Ambassadeur 6000 reel with the following features:

Beveled red side plates, no date stamped on reel foot, oil port on handle, black spool with red trim, pearl handle with counterbalance weight, four screws on side plate, flat edge screws, and a red five point star drag.

I think this reel from what I am reading was made between 1959 and 1961.  It came with a brown leather reel case with what looks like a brass closure.  It has a manual for Ambassadeur 5000 and 6000 in it but it is creased and has some crumbled edges.  It has a vile of spare parts, brake blocks, etc. that has a "6000" on the red cap, a small tube of oil and a small wrench.  The reel is almost totally flawless cosmetically and works perfectly.  

Any idea on what this would be worth from a collector's standpoint would be great.  Thanks so much and best wishes on the water!

[oldschoolbasser]

If the side plates are beveled,the reel isn't  original. It should have grooved side plates. No stamping on the reel seat usually indicates a replacement frame. If you could post a few pics it would help,but judging from your description, the reel doesn't sound authentic. 

[Big-Bass]

Grooved side plates are what I meant to say...sorry.  The frame is original and Abu 6000 models before 1964 did not have date codes stamped them.  I will post pictures if I can for better assessment.  Thank you!

[Big-Bass]

Here is the site that I used and some info on the all models...the 6000 info is on there as well as a breakdown of how to determine age.

http://www.lurelore.com/freds/abu.html#section9

I am wondering because of the good condition how much it's worth.  Thanks!

[oldschoolbasser]

Ok,that's better. It's a nice reel in great condition. As for what it's worth,you'll have to check prices on EBay,both the U.S.,and England for a better idea.

[Big-Bass]

Okay...thanks!  For its age I think it looks great.  I might even use it just to say I caught a fish on a reel thats over 20 years older than me.  I am sure the cranking power is awesome.  Maybe I'll put 14-20lb. test on the reel and use it for big baits!  It would be cool to put it to good use while not harming its value.

[oldschoolbasser]

I still fish with my Old Ambassadeurs,but they've been tricked out just a little!