In this column we take a look at unusual Renault products.
Sometimes collectors come across objects of which they would like to know much more about the history and background. The same goes for this cast iron plaque with the name Renault. If you look closely you can see the mention 'Société Anonymes Usines' above and at the bottom 'Billancourt Seine'. Flipping back to page 5 of the past number 6 (click here) it is not difficult to trace the origin of this 'type plate' of format. Renault applied this to its military products, being tanks and special tracked vehicles (UE). The location of this plate is different. For example, it can be found on the front of the B1 bis and the R35. Those who can remember the FT-tank can see this on the side in the middle of the suspension of the track chains.
And then comes the challenge of dating. In any case, this is not a FT plate because at that time the name Société Anonyme was not yet used. Much more likely is that this plate was on a UE, a R35, B1 bis, AMR33 or ACG1, products from the thirties. Moreover, it is always possible that it is a reproduction. We will probably never find out.
Do you have uncommon or rare Renault-products that would fit into this column? Or do you own something of which its function is a mystery to you? Send your high-resolution picture(s) to losangemagazine@gmail.com.