Any clues

[allenh]

I'd say that want's doing properly, it has the makings of a very nice machine but to get there would need a good budget.

If you do it yourself it will need silver with a green lacquer over it to get the colour and then a decent 2K lacquer over the top once you've added the decals. And I will say the coloured lacquers available now are not the easiest thing to get an even coverage with and are really not a very durable finish.

Edit: its original colour looks the same as the Buccaneer that's in my footer and the 54 Jubilee in Peachy's footer

 

[Old Ned]

The rear dropouts appear to be either Benelux, Simplex or Huret. Probably Benelux but the thread is the defining factor.

 

[Brilloaul]

I had it down to the bare metal and coated to prevent rust returning. My spray can effort is not great so know but I think I’ll see if it is mechanically sound after I’ve added new bits first

Getting there ….

Gut feeling by the way, I think it might possibly be a 1953 top of the range Avant Coureur Special judging by the Bi-laminates, with some pre-1950 racing/track forks.
Then at some point in its life it’s had a more modern (60’s?) set of rear drop-outs added.

I had it down to the bare metal and coated to prevent rust returning. My spray can effort is not great so know but I think I’ll see if it is mechanically sound after I’ve added new bits first

 

[Brilloaul]

Ok so you need to help us help you.
better photos inserted correctly would help rather than just being attached.
And you’ve posted three number sets without any explanation where they are from. What I can see is 20173, 33491 & 534 2851all look like they are on a steerer tube?
The first two seem to be Holdsworthy numbers and the last set more like a Claud set. (1953 April -2851)
The head badge and frame are definitely 50’s “proper” Claud and by the look of them the forks look pre 1950 but the numbers don’t match.
Also the rear hanger isn’t one I’m familiar with & I’m pretty sure is post 1956.
Time to call in some support… @dwscrimshaw

Yes, All numbers were on the steerer and the last 3 numbers were on the bottom bracket but very worn down and hard to read

 

[Brilloaul]

 

[Brilloaul]

Ok so you need to help us help you.
better photos inserted correctly would help rather than just being attached.
And you’ve posted three number sets without any explanation where they are from. What I can see is 20173, 33491 & 534 2851all look like they are on a steerer tube?
The first two seem to be Holdsworthy numbers and the last set more like a Claud set. (1953 April -2851)
The head badge and frame are definitely 50’s “proper” Claud and by the look of them the forks look pre 1950 but the numbers don’t match.
Also the rear hanger isn’t one I’m familiar with & I’m pretty sure is post 1956.
Time to call in some support… @dwscrimshaw

Hi
I’ve been using this bike as a single speed. I’ve come across a local with a Benelux rear derailleur but the Claud Butler had a Simplex lever on the downtube. Will any derailleur bolt on to the frame dropouts?
Thanks

 

[Brilloaul]

The rear dropouts appear to be either Benelux, Simplex or Huret. Probably Benelux but the thread is the defining factor.

Thanks
I’ve traced a set of Benelux so the only way is to remove its derailleur claw and try the bolt and nut on my frame?