Record Ambassadeur 5000 (2nd Model)

This Record Ambassadeur 5000 is considered the 2nd model of the Record Ambassadeur introduced in 1954. The first model being the "Record Ambassadeur Model SG" introduced in 1953. The prominent feature of this reel it its gray spool and gray star drag.

Record Ambassadeur 5000 (3rd Model)

The 3rd (last ?) model of the Record Ambassadeur 5000 illustrated above features red spool (with Grey Arbor) and red star drag. Some models have spool in black or metallic gray as well. 5 digit serial numbers on some later ones.

Record Ambassadeur 5000 (Green)

Need I say more ? ABU made Record Ambassadeur in various colours initially to gauge market response. This is one of the 20 pieces that were made in Green. See also rare ABUs.

Due to the very high demand among collectors worldwide, I have heard of people actually fitting an early '4-Screw' 5000 with a Record Ambassadeur 5000 end plate ! These usually goes unnoticed to inexperienced collectors. I have gathered some information which can serve as a general guide when buying Record Ambassadeurs:

• A very small numbers of reels have 5 digit numbers on the reel foot. But most Record Ambassadeur comes without numbers. Those with numbers are potential warning sign that it could be a fake. Those who have 6 digit numbers would be almost a fake ! (Early 5000 starts with 5 figure numbers. The lowest I have seen is 9xxxx)
• Clasp on the case is chrome.
• Spares comes in a blue metal tube.
• "Record" oil bottle.
• Case is leather with no markings
• Spools are either Gray, Red/Grey, Black or Metallic Gray. If you see a Record Ambassadeur that has the early 5000 metallic arbor spool, there is a very high chance that it could be a fake !

Some related info