The Bata reel was made in Batawa, Ont., just north of Trenton. During WW2, Bata was like a lot of companies involved in the war effort with changes in the wind following the easing of hositilities. Having troops coming back home to Canada, Bata and a few other Canadian Companies switched gears soon after the war to more liesurely pursuits, with at least 2 different reels made for aproximately 2-3 years in roughly 1947-1950.
As far as collectibility goes these can still be found primarily in Ontario. Distribution was national but largely remained a regional item to note.
I trust that this is of some assistance.
Regards
Donald Stokes
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