Unknown large flange flip-flop

[StevemOs]

It's of no real consequence but I'm interested... I'm taking on a restoration of an early 70's falcon in the coming weeks. I was thinking I'll go fixie/ss.

To do this I am going to build up a flip-flop hub i have in my bits-box. This hub isn't one of mine, it's one of my dad's from the 50'/60s.

I was interested to know the provenance. It is Madenin England
It says 'Birmingham', with 'A PILLxxxxx' or something above it with a castle? logo..
Patent 59613 maybe?
Thoughts appreciated. Cheers

 

[StevemOs]

A bit of googling suggests Airlight? Perhaps?

 

[ferrus]

Pretty sure it’s a Harden. Lovely quality hubs which used cartridge type bearings.
http://classicrendezvous.com/British_isles/harden _2.htmhttps://www.classiclightweights.co.uk/classic_components/harden-bicycle-products/

 

[StevemOs]

Thanks @ferrus it's definitely on of those
The Hardwn logo has rubbed off, and the text that says ' A PILLAR OF INDUSTRY' is partially rubbed off. Thanks!

 

[StevemOs]

Reading your links @ferrus it indicates a later model as the Patent number 596137 is stamped on it...

 

[ferrus]

Great, they were an interesting company.
I’m very fond of my Hardens, their bearings seem superb and still run smoothly. Some owners with much more experience of them are apparently less impressed though

 

[bagpuss]

I have a pair of Harden hubs on my Paris Galibier .

Paris Galibier by rebalrid, on Flickr

 

[ferrus]

Fantastic to see your Galibier Paul. Wonderful bike.

 

[StevemOs]

Lovely piece of kit @bagpuss !

 

[bagpuss]

Thank you gents . First ride on it for this year tomorrow . I will take a couple of pictures .