Shimano Anteres

[okiemac]

So I stumbled onto this reel. The new model is the most expensive reel I’ve seen. What did I stumble into? Not super familiar with higher end reels. I’m guessing it can be cleaned and serviced like any other reel?? It’s filthy and needs a real professional cleaning. Any info appreciated!

[steve1206]

Depending on the iteration, the old Antares were the JDM "equivalent" of the Shimano Calais, their flagship reel back in the day (disclaimer-- I still have 6 Calais reels). There's an old AR version that was basically a Calais 100 5.8:1 cranking reel with a short handle. There was a Calais 200-ish version, one with a 5-gear, as well as a DC version. Sometime around the early 2010s??, the Calais went away and the Antares became the standalone "flagship" reel for the US and Japanese markets. Since, there have been new iterations of Antares reels in something like '12, '16' 19' 23, and "25. Even though they are "high end" reels, they are typically seen as "moving bait" reels because the are relatively heavy compared to other Shimano reels--you'll hear things like "built like a tank." Back in the day, Shimano also used to give away "coupons" for servicing, where you could send Stellas and Calais to Shimano and they would service at no charge (Platinum service?).....however, at least prior, Shimano (US) was hesitant, or flat out would not, service JDM reels. IIRC, there were some parts on the Calais/Antares that were "sales" and Shimano was best at servicing, but don't 100% quote me on that . I don't know what has changed with service since the Calais/Antares contraction, and the Antares basically being a US offering, now...That is a rough history. I'm sure others can fill in some blanks or correct any minor details I may have missed....

[okiemac]

Thank you Steve for the info. The reel is the HG model. Has Japan stamped underneath, so I’m assuming that’s where manufactured. It is a bit bulky IMO but even absolutely filthy it’s a smooth dude. Plan on sending it to reel-ex to get serviced and cleaned.

[dragon1]

BTW, it sounds like you have a 2012 Antares HG, if so, gear sets are still available and very reasonable.

https://www.tackletour.com/reviewshimantares.html

[okiemac]

That’s the reel. Thanks dragon!

[dragon1]

That’s the reel. Thanks dragon!

Yeppers...

2014 - 2019 USDM Antares HG
Dates in production:
ANT100HG - 2014-2019

Main drive gear part #10CRA: $17.11
Pinion gear part # 10CU7: $12.69

For the RH anyway. Shimano USA parts shop has them in stock. Also, you should be able to convert to the 5.6:1 low gear if you want more power, and with the bigger diameter spool, you will still pull almost 26 IPTs.