Cross frame bicycle circa 1900?

[bagpuss]

Lots of tweed needed .....
Went to see this lovely old machine today . No makers transfers or head badge .
Front rod brake . Early SA rear hub. Leatheries of Birmingham? saddle

Cross frame bicycle circa 1900. by rebalrid, on Flickr

Not really my bag . Vendor has no idea of value and neither do I .
Any pointers welcome . Been with one family since it was new .

 

[keithglos]

With only the one pic for reference I would date this early to mid 1930s.
Chrome plate started common usage in 1931, previous bright parts were nickel.
Cable to front brake also probably wrong.
What SA gear was it?

Keith

 

[OldTel]

Re:

Hi, Keith could be right but it is difficult to date from this distance, the seat lug will probably have the serial number which may be useful, the rear clearance points to an older frame but the design is commoner than you think, have a look at http://www.rijwiel.net/kruisfre.htm . Thanks Terry

 

[velomaniac]

Re:

Looks like one of those bikes the Catholic clergy rode as it helped when wearing a cassock. I believe some of the Dutch brands still do something like it e.g. Sparta or Gazelle.