Round radiators revisited

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When I recently identified the Maudslay, Kevin Atkinson asked if he could see more. I thought about it and decided it would be a good idea, but not only round radiators. During the year a number of posts will appear on pre-WW1 cars and how to identify them. A friend told me not long ago, that every make or model has at least one unique feature, which makes it recognisable. I tend to agree with him. Besides, the lead photo will show a car on which you can practise your skills. The cars will not be very rare and there will be no reward except your own satisfaction to have identified it. The first correct answer (through the comment box) will receive the honors.

But first returning to the round radiators list. It is my opinion that not only the list is far from complete, some important makes are missing and others just don't belong there. Just to name a few more: Beeston Humber, Cottereau, Fawcett-Fowler (an english steamer), Fouillaron, Georges-Roy, Marlborough and the suiss Sigma. Other shapes like round radiators with a straight bottom (like Pilain and Hotchkiss), standing or lying ovals, egg-shaped radiators, radiators with a profiled top (like Speedwell) all deserve their own lists. Some makes shouldn't be on the list at all in my opinion, like Chenard & Walcker, Royal Star or Sava.

How to identify all the different round radiators? My advise is to collect images, look at differences like louvres, bonnet grips, filler tubes and caps, the inner core of the radiator, emblems etc. etc. So start practising immediately and tell me the make and year of the lead photo. The only clue I'll give is that it's missing on the list!

All images from contemporary magazines and personal archive

Words: Ariejan Bos

Originally published on April 2nd, 2016

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