Abstract: A reel, in particular an intermediate or storage reel for provisionally receiving a variable cable length between a stationary end and a movable end of a cable. The reel is characterized by a stationarily mounted central drum which is fitted with a cable receiving groove extending helically over its drum surface and having a connection to an axial cable passage for a stationary cable end, and at least two satellite drums, each having the same diameter as the central drum and each likewise being fitted in its surface with a helical cable-receiving groove of the same pitch as that of the central drum, but oppositely directed with respect thereto. The satellite drums are rotatable about the central drum and simultaneously rotatable about their own axes such that the oppositely disposed portions of the respective grooves are capable of always receiving a portion of the cable between them.