Stainless or chromed bridge sleeve

[Newell Nut]

I have a large collection but today something new arrived with something that I have not seen before. I bought an early P 338J and the bridge sleeve looks like polished stainless or it is chrome plated. It also has the 4 stack drag system with the original drag washers and appears never used. The grease in the gear is still white factory grease.
Was this type of bridge sleeve common in the early days?

[bluefish69]

Newell did use SS in the beginning. Latter switched to brass because it was cheaper.

[Newell Nut]

Thanks Mike
I don't know if I should actually use it or set it on my desk to admire. Sure is a pretty gear set.

No fishing down south this weekend. 15 foot seas
Did you guys get out?