Researching a unique Malicet et Blin

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While PWC was attending the Rallye Historique Paris-Rambouillet in June 2021, we were introduced to a German enthusiast with a delightful 1897 Malicet et Blin vis-à-vis. On account of its rarity alone, it's a very interesting subject, but this one has a long history of preservation dating back to 1960. It's the period before that which concerns us, though, and particularly the owner, who is very keen to find out more about his car's past.

According to The Beaulieu Encyclopædia of the Automobile, Paul Malicet and Eugène Blin went into business in 1890 with plans to manufacture a chainless bicycle, but soon became suppliers of components to other bicycle-makers. They were quick to recognise the growing importance of the motor industry, and started making automotive parts such as chassis, steering gears and most other components besides engines. They made some effort to manufacture complete cars, of which this 1897 vis-à-vis, with its 4hp horizontal single-cylinder engine, is evidence.

The earliest records of this particular car are the photographs from the opening of the Musée de l'Automobile Henri Malartre in Rochetaillée-sur-Saône in 1960, but Malartre had been collecting since the 1930s, so he may have owned it for a long time previously. The owner says, "I've searched a lot of archives and old magazines, but unfortunately there is no information about it. At the time, it was probably only an experimental vehicle."

We are aware of just one other Malicet et Blin, a 1903 car with an 8hp vertical single-cylinder engine and tonneau bodywork. Perhaps one of our readers can shed some more light on the subject? Please tell us in the comments below.

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