Museum Archive: Vintage Eppinger Dardevle Dardevlet, 3/4oz Red/White/Nicke fishing spoon #16653

A bold red finish split by a white diagonal stripe characterizes the front of this 3/4oz (21g) classic casting spoon. Measuring 2 3/4" (7cm), the painted surface shows some minor field use with small nicks and scuffs typical of an active fishing life, earning it a solid 4/5 condition rating. The back of the lure features the deeply embossed 'DARDEVLET DETROIT U.S.A.' stamp, a hallmark of Eppinger’s early production before the company moved from Detroit to Dearborn in 1959. Cataloged under product code 16653, the Dardevlet's oblong, concave shape is manufactured using proprietary dies that have remained unchanged since Lou Eppinger’s earliest designs. A robust treble hook is attached via a heavy-duty split ring, showing slight darkening of the metal which underscores its authentic vintage status. These spoons are built with a nickel-finished back, a design choice intended for visibility in clear water conditions.