WW2 Army Bicycle Blackout Lamp
WW2 Army Bicycle Blackout Lamp showing lens
Name/Title
WW2 Army Bicycle Blackout LampEntry/Object ID
2025.1.866Description
Metal khaki coloured torch with an external moveable shutter to cover the beam of light, a carrying handle, an off/on button on the top, stamped Lucas and a hook to attach to a belt or onto a bicycle. Manufactured by Joseph Lucas 1941. Lucas is stamped on the top alongside a WD (War Department) arrow. On the back of the lamp on the hook it is marked LAMPS ELECTR.C.No.1 JOSEPH LUCAS LYD> BIRMINGHAM – 1941.Context
Joseph Lucas produced his first cycling lamp in 1871 and called it King of the Road. Although started as a sideline to his business it rapidly became the most important part, until developing into automotive parts which accounted for nearly two-thirds of the company's turnover before 1910, and makes Lucas one of the ten largest suppliers of automotive components in Europe. In the 1990s, as in the 1900s, the key to Lucas's success is diversification--both through acquisitions, mostly overseas in recent times, and through developing new products. As recently as 1980 the company's chief products were batteries, lamps, and other electrical components for British motor cars. By 1990, its automotive division had survived the collapse of the British motor industry by moving into producing high-tech engine-management systems and braking systems for car companies all over the world, while its aerospace and industrial divisions are in the forefront of product innovation and cross-border joint ventures.Cataloged By
Felix LamCategory
Occupation, Bicycles, motor bikes, mechanical