Gents,
Something I'd really like for my Rebel--a knotmeter that doesn't require a battery for operation. Anything other than a chip log or hand-held GPS come to mind? That won't cost me more than the actual boat?!
OR, if I have to have a battery for a small outboard, what's an inexpensive knotmeter that I could easily (and nicely) install? I'm really looking for something that's going to give some instant feedback on sail adjustments (which the GPS won't really do) that won't break the bank.
In unrelated news, I'll be making a trip to Kendor in two Saturdays! My wife has a shower to go to and the kiddos will be with a grandma so I've got the afternoon clear of obligations! I'm really looking forward to digging through their parts and pieces for a couple of hours without guilt (though my wife would honestly have come along and enjoyed it too).
Thanks for your feedback on any knotmeter ideas.
-John "Spring can't come fast enough" JT

Perhaps you have seen this but it looks dead simple. I am unable to go anywhere on the site but maybe you will have better luck.

simsknotmeter.com/

Gone has the mechanical paddle-wheel type. No idea what they cost as it came w/ the boat. It does require a hole in the hull that I am not crazy about but, there it is, so I will use it.

I had a unit like the simsensor above. I bought it mail order at Laacke and Joys (when they were a chandler).

Worked very well, the top marking was 8 knots, so you could see .25 knots easily. Used to to evaluate paddle strokes for canoe racing, of all things.

I couldn't find anyone who still sells them.

Guys,
Thanks for the feedback. I was happy to know that I wasn't completely nuts (OK, that's up for some debate).
Great news for me--I did a little more trolling around the web and found this site.
www.knotstick.com/
Check it out if you're looking for a batteryless knotmeter. Might be good for a back-up on some boats. I'm fairly certain I have the $50 in my sailing budget for the year and will be ordering one of these. If anyone is curious, I'll post some results later in the summer.

Thanks again!
-John