When one mystery leads to another

• 

A little while ago, we featured a mysterious Belle Époque coupé (click here), which generated a number of interesting responses. The car reminded Yves Roussel of a Rochet-Schneider on display at the Henri Malartre Museum near Lyon, while reader L.E. Poder had similar thoughts, adding: “Jean-Michel Cérède owned a De Dion-Bouton with the same body style, and I also knew of a Rochet-Schneider of similar design. The curved roof and the windows divided into four sections remind me of the work of coachbuilders Alin & Liautard, who built two- and three-seater bodies for Grégoire in the same style.”

Automotive historian Ariejan Bos agreed, adding: “This is a nice little coupé de voyage conduite intérieure on a Grégoire chassis with coachwork by Alin & Liautard, dating from around 1909.”

That appears to solve one mystery, so on to the next, as the car reminded Simon Davis of another intriguing photograph. He wrote: “The upright passenger compartment of the Belle Époque car featured here recently reminded me of a photograph I have of a car with a similarly square-cut cabin. I have no idea what the car is and would appreciate any feedback on its identity. All I can say is that the photograph was taken in 1926, possibly in Germany or perhaps Switzerland. I can also confirm (from another photograph) that the windscreen features an opening panel, which can just be seen in the open position behind the trafficator arm (which is shaped like an arrow). Regrettably, I do not have a photograph showing the front of the car. Any suggestions would be most welcome.”

So here we go again, dear reader. Over to you!

Words: Jeroen Booij; Photograph: Simon Davis

Make a comment, ask a question, give your opinion, share additional information or start a discussion by filling in the fields below.