I recently was given a Abu Garcia ambassadeur 5000c. The reel is in very good condition looks brand new. I'm wondering if I should go ahead and string it up and use it or keep it as a collectors item. I'm not very familar with the history behind this reel but hopefully some of you are.

Some information on Abu reels can be found here:  http://www.lurelore.com/freds/abu.html#section3

 

This is a direct quote from the page.

 

Here are some of my findings for the Ambassadeur 5000C during its life span. Production for this model began in June 1966 and was introduced to the public in 1967. The 5000C had its own set of serial numbers which started at 10001. Although first made in 4-screw version, ABU changed all of their reel frames to a 3-screw version about eighteen months later in early 1968. According to ABU log books, #189010 is the highest serial number entered before lot numbers took over sometime in late 1971.

 

I have a 5001C (left hand) from over 30 years ago.  Mine came with a plastic arbor that fits over the spool if so desired.  I knew no one who fished a baitcast reel, and if the Interet was available back then, I knew nothing of it.  Thus the reel sat in the bottom of my boat.  Too bad as it wore the paint off on each side of the spool.  Other than that the reel is practically brand new...never being fish for more than a few minutes.  Long enough for me to realize I couldn't cast it.  It isn't even broke in yet. 

 

Thanks to the Internet, I now can cast half-way decent.  This reel will be put to use.  Whether or not you want to use yours or save it as a collector's item is up to you.  Maybe your reel is within the serial number range the guy who wrote the blog I gave is looking for, and you could make a little money on it,

 

Personally I am into using whatever gear I have.  The old Abus take a lickin and keep on tickin.

I appreciate the info. I'm gonna read more into it, although I'm leaning towards the side of collecting it. I have many reels including old abus that are tore up and still kickin. I'm just glad I was given this reel whether I fish it or enjoy it through collection. Thanks again

Enjoy it, by the time it's worth anything you will be gone.  Make memories with it.

I appreciate the info. I'm gonna read more into it, although I'm leaning towards the side of collecting it. I have many reels including old abus that are tore up and still kickin. I'm just glad I was given this reel whether I fish it or enjoy it through collection. Thanks again

If your into collecting info on Abu's then I would visit this Facebook group....

We who loves the ABU Ambassadeur....https://www.facebook.com/groups/222149684443/ 

 

Tight Lines!