This was a strangely disappointing derailleur for a company that could be as innovative as Huret. Sure, it was strongly and accurately constructed. Sure, it was decently finished. Sure, it was very much in the style of the best selling derailleurs of the time. But, in 1940, it was essentially a copy of the 1935 Simplex Champion de France. You could possibly argue that it was even a tiny bit cruder than the Simplex Champion de France.

Perhaps it was something to do with the impact of the Second World War. Perhaps Simplex had gone into hibernation or, because of 'supply chain issues', could not churn out enough product to satisfy demand. Either would open a window for Huret to prosper by producing a, rather unremarkable, me-too product.

Some key features of this example may be:

• The hanger plate has a black oxide finish.
• The b-pivot bolt has a 20mm diameter head.
• The main arm is chrome plated.
• The chain guide also has a black oxide finish.
• The large nuts that hold the sliding cylinder onto the main arm are brass.

• Derailleur brands: Huret
• Categories: Huret - before 1950
• Country: France
• Date of introduction: 1940
• Date of this example: unknown
• Model no.: unknown
• Weight: 267g including 'hanger plate'
• Maximum cog: 26 teeth? (see Huret Dural Competition)
• Total capacity: 20 teeth? (see Huret Dural Competition)
• Pulley centre to centre: not applicable
• Index compatibility: friction
• Chain width: 1/8”
• Logic: low normal
• B pivot: sprung
• P pivot: none
• Materials: mainly steel, with brass main sliding cylinders, cable stop, and large nuts on main cylinder.