1954 Martin Precision 103A spin reel

[Woodbilly]

One drop of lubricant would obscure the view on the clear side plate.  So, it would only be useful when run dry for a short period.... like demonstration purposes.  A shelfy-only reel for sure.

Not the case.
Both of my red Martin's have seen use and the one I recently aquired, but have yet to get in hand, has seen much use, but the sideplate is clear pristine, compared to the one pictured.

I cleaned and lubed this girl with faucet valve grease and light machine oil, then wiped all traces of lubrication off of the face plate mounting surfaces, then vigorously ran reel, both directions, placed side plate, and all is great.

No spatter or smear on the internal cover, anywhere.
I didn't update with refreshed pictures, but will post some later with some fish!

I have found out that 3 versions were offered. Green, gray, and red.

The red is only style with zerk trip and clear side plate.
 Offered, not a salesman sample.

Spooled with 6lb test and getting used, today, for crappie catching!

[Woodbilly]

Wow Woodbilly! Happy you found some rare reels you've been searching for. Looking forward to the full treatment refresh coming soon.

Thank you!

I'm ready to get the green ones, just to strip one fully.

"Scarlett" is going out on a date today! Lol

[Woodbilly]

Paired Scarlett with an Eagle Claw 5' Featherlite, today.

Caught 55 for 20 keepers.

I took the Rogue M150,too, but didn't even use her.

Got hung up on this spectacular Martin reel all day.

Easily handled the big crappie and the trigger loop really steps up the ergonomic feel of this reel.

Definitely keeping these Martin reels in the rotation.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

[foakes]

Nice slabs!

Those little Martin spinning reels are tough and bulletproof.

These were manufactured before reel companies started to add obsolescence to their engineering plans.

They didn't even know the word!

Best, Fred