Help me identify age of this simco saddle?

[mistbyrome]

I had a chance to grab this dirty (but good shape) black western Simco saddle on the weekend. I figured why not? I have heard that the old ones were keepers and the newer ones, not so much. From the serial number, how can I find out its age? I will post pictures too. Thanks in advance

[SouthernTrailsG]

Simco made very few Black Saddles

The numbers are model numbers not serial numbers, for example a 72160-6 is a Black Arabian Saddle 16" seat. A 72496-6 is a Black Trail Saddle Semi-QH

If they have the 4 digit numbers they are older than 1980 an almost impossible to trace.

Let me know what the number is and a pic



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[mistbyrome]

Well than, this MUST be an oldie. Because the model number is 8601. I will get a picture tomorrow...

I must admit though, I'm surprised....I *think* the tree might by fiberglass...and I didn't think they really used that much until more recent years when synthetic materials became more popular?? It's definitely leather however, and not any kind of synthetic...


Thanks for the response as well!

[mistbyrome]

photos (couldn't find camera battery charger so taken with my phone...sorry)

[Tack Collector]

'60s or maybe '70s. Ralide Little Wonder tree is what it's shaped like. But similar saddles were made for decades.

[mistbyrome]

'60s or maybe '70s. Ralide Little Wonder tree is what it's shaped like. But similar saddles were made for decades.

I'm pretty ignorant to western brands, is Ralide a model of Simco, because it definitely says Simco on it, I just couldn't get a photo with my phone.
Thanks for the response!

[SouthernTrailsG]

Ralide is who made the Tree in the Saddle



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[CrazyHorse]

*grabby hands* I can has?

[mistbyrome]

So is this a good find or? I'm pretty pleased, as I wanted to purchase a second western saddle for mountain trail rides with my partner (he always uses my current one because english saddles hurt his knees...oh and of course he feels safer I'm just happy he'll ride with me!).

I am bringing it over to a friends who repairs western saddles and he's going to check the tree and overall for safety and show me how to revive dry stiff leather! I'll post knee pictures once its all cleaned up and pretty! (give me a few weeks as I probably won't get to it for awhile)

I'm excited!!