Mystery Carlton model info wanted.

[chronocase]

I remember way back in the 60s a friend had a 62 or 63 Carlton racing bike. This bike was something special. It had a chromed frame with blue flourishes and had Campagnolo gear changer and numerous other parts. I think the frame was Reynolds 531. I don't know the model but it looked rather like the Cobra model, which I believe was introduced a few years later.
Can anybody can throw any light on this model.

 

[Midlife]

The finish was called Acryllichrome (spelling) and was used on a number of models. Catalina rings a bell.

The Italians called the finish Cromovelato and like the Carlton jobby chipped like crazy lol

Shaun

 

[chronocase]

Many thanks Shaun for the info.

 

[Midlife]

1962 Carlton Catalogue

http://www.classiclightweights.co.uk/ca ... s-cat.html

Anything ring a bell?

Shaun

 

[chronocase]

Hi Shaun,
Excellent!! Yes, this catalogue does show the model I remember which is the all chrome Catalina.Amazing what info is about if you know where to look. Many thanks.
I have recently purchased a Carlton all chrome Cobra and I would like to know when this model was first introduced and when it finished. Surprisingly the chrome on this bike is in quite good condition with only minor pitting which is probably good enough to live with rather than re-chroming.
Tim

 

[Spokesmann]

The Acrylichrome finish looked superb, but as Shaun says was not very durable. Here is some on this Christmas image of my 62 Constellation.

 

[Midlife]

Hi Tim

Here's me riding my Cobra on a Hull Thursday Road Club 10 mile TT back in the mid 70's. That Cobra is long gone..........

and here's a Cobra frame in the garage, plain lugs so pre 1974 ish

Any pics of yours?

Shaun

 

[chronocase]

Many thanks for the excellent pictures. The Cobra in action looks stunning. Thanks also to Mike for the superb Constellation pics. A real rarity. Interesting website.
I will takes some pics of my Cobra as I bought it before any restoration. I would like to know the year and I believe this can be traced from the frame number.
Beautiful day here in Suffolk - I must take my Freddie Grubb for spin.

 

[Midlife]

Freddie Grubb

Shaun

 

[chronocase]

Re:

Hi Shaun,
Some quick pics of the Cobra.
Not too sure what path for the restoration, but definitely some new lightweight pedals, bars and seat post. Chainwheel teeth are a bit worn. Replace with alloy?? Large flange alloy wheels, Brookes black seat. Campag changer would be nice.
New transfers and Blue spray.
Can you suggest?
Tim