Brooks 1913 Catalog — The Brooks Book for Cyclists

The Brooks Book for Cyclists, 1913, from J. B. Brooks & Co. Ltd. of Great Charles Street, Birmingham. The printed sequence runs to page 40, between cream cloth-grain card covers, with the year blocked in a cartouche on the front cover and printed again on the title page, and the title page adding Twenty-ninth Year of Publication. The cover also carries the Brooks bee device with the motto INDUSTRIA.

This book was read to close the last open bound on the Brooks height convention, and it moves it by one year. The convention changes twice across this collection, from the under surface of the leather to the top surface and back again, and the first of those changes had been bracketed to the four years between 1912 and 1916. The 1913 book carries its own definition on printed page 10, under the heading Size, Weight and Height of BROOKS Saddles, and it measures to the under surface in the words the 1910, 1911 and 1912 books use. The first change is therefore later than 1913.

The definition has moved again. It is on printed page 6 in the 1906, 1907 and 1908 books, page 3 in 1910, page 13 in 1911, page 11 in 1912 and page 10 here. Anyone looking for the specification note at a fixed page in this run will not find it.

Five other things make the book worth citing.

The first is the strongest evidence in the collection for how Brooks handled the two datums at once, and it is on a single opening. Printed pages 20 and 21 carry four saddles. The B 85 and B 85 L give an unqualified height governed by the general rule, and the page describes a superfine leather top carefully blocked to shape. The B 40 and B 40 L, the B 33 and B 33 L, and on the facing leaf the B 36 and B 36 L all give their height to the top surface and say so on the page, and all three are described as padded or cushioned: the B 40 by special padded under-leather, the B 33 by soft leather pads comfortably cushioned, the B 36 as well cushioned over a stout, strong and well shaped leather top. The B 90 Padded on printed page 23 is a fourth, immediately beneath the plain B 90, which carries an unqualified height. So within one book, and on one opening, every saddle with padding between the frame and the rider is measured to the top surface and every plain-topped saddle is measured to the under surface. The datum that becomes general in 1916 was in systematic use for padded models at least three years earlier, marked model by model, and a Brooks height must be read off the model entry rather than only off the front matter.

The second is the B 90 control, which does not move. Printed page 23 gives all three sizes at 10 1/2 by 8 1/2 inches, 11 1/2 by 9 inches and 12 by 9 1/2 inches, weighing 2 lb. 13 oz., 3 lb. 3 oz. and 3 lb. 12 oz., at 11/6, 12/6 and 13/6 in enamel and 14/-, 15/- and 16/- in nickel. Every one of those figures is identical to 1911 and to 1912, and the prices are identical to 1910. The saddle is flat in size, weight and price across four consecutive books on the eve of the war.

The third is the B 28, on printed page 22, which names the rubber buffers outright: the BROOKS Rubber Buffers are fitted to this model. Its Size 3 is 12 by 9 1/2 inches, the dimension it had held since 1905 and would lose in 1916.

The fourth is the military range. Printed page 37 carries the Patent Military Saddle headed No. 2 and No. 3 Military, and no No. 1, which confirms from the book itself a correction this project first made from the 1908 and 1910 books. The same printed page carries an Army Cycle Tool Bag headed No. 2, and printed page 38 carries Registered Service Pattern Rifle Clips sold as a No. 1 set. So a No. 1, two No. 2s and a No. 3 fall within two leaves across three classes of product, and a numbered Brooks military item must be identified as a saddle, a bag or a clip before it is recorded.

The fifth is the period annotation, which is the most useful thing in this particular copy. A hand has gone through the book in red ink, striking out model numbers and writing new ones above them, and amending printed prices. Both kinds of amendment are carried into the 1914 book. On printed page 36 the Cape Carrier is struck from B 9450 to 2774 and its price is amended to 1/6, and the 1914 book prints B 2774 Cape Carrier at 1/6. The same pattern holds for the bags on printed pages 30 to 35. The annotation is part of the artifact and has not been cleaned, and this record does not assert who made it.

SCAN AND CAVEATS. Shipped as-scanned; no de-yellowing was applied and none is needed, the book being printed in green ink on cream and reading cleanly. The scan passes all three defect checks, with no exact duplicate image anywhere in the book, no adjacent duplicate and an unbroken printed page sequence on the house mapping of sheet N to printed pages 2N-4 and 2N-3. There is no index; printed pages 3, 5 and 7 are all continuous prose. The book scans at about 100 ppi across a two-page spread, so a printed page carries roughly 437 pixels of width, and the vulgar fractions in the height column do not survive at any magnification. Every B 90 height prints as three and a fraction inches and the fraction is deliberately omitted rather than guessed, while integers, halves and the quarters and eighths in the size column are firm and are recorded. This is a Cyclist’s Edition: printed page 40 states that Brooks issued separate catalogues for motor cycle saddles and touring equipment, for car equipment specialities and for general leather goods, so an absence from this book is an absence from the bicycle edition rather than from the Brooks range.

— Sheet 1. Front cover —

[Cream cloth-grain card cover, printed in gold-brown. A shaped panel fills the centre, lettered in outline capitals. Beneath the panel a scrolled cartouche holds the year, and below that a roundel carries a bee with wings spread above a banner. The cover is lightly soiled at the fore-edge and there is a small stain at the spine edge.]

THE BROOKS

REGISTERED TRADE MARK

BOOK for CYCLISTS

1913

INDUSTRIA

— Sheet 2. Inside front cover and printed page 1, the title page —

[Two page opening. The left page is the blank inside front cover, showing the cover stock. The right page is the title page, letterpress in green with the firm name in heavier black.]

[Printed page 1.]

The BROOKS

(Registered Trade Mark)

BOOK FOR CYCLISTS

containing full particulars of the many models of the

BROOKS Cycle Saddles and Bags for

1913

Twenty-ninth year of publication.

Telephone : (Six Lines) 3670 Central.
Telegrams : “Brooks, Birmingham.”

J. B. BROOKS & Co. Ltd.

Great Charles St., Birmingham

ESTABLISHED 1866

Contractors to H.M. Government, The War Office, India Office, Post Office and Colonial & Foreign Governments etc., etc.

— Sheet 7. Printed pages 10 and 11 —

[Two page letterpress opening, no illustration. The left page carries the specification note, which is the reason this leaf was ingested. The right page carries the guarantee and the repair instructions.]

[Printed page 10.]

Size, Weight and Height of BROOKS Saddles

For the convenience of the purchaser we have specified throughout this Catalogue, the size, weight, and height of every Saddle illustrated, and, for the further information of the reader, we would say that-

In the matter of size, in order that the figures given may be used for the purpose of comparison between one model and another, we have adopted a uniform method of measurement, viz., that by which the bootmaker measures the length of the foot; hence the measurements must be regarded only from this point of view, and not as indicating exactly the amount of seat room which the saddle offers.

In the case of the weights quoted, these are in every case as accurate as it is possible to make them, in view of the slight variations which may occur in the weight and thickness of leather.

The height, in every instance, has been measured from the centre of the clip-bolt to the under surface of the leather and, of course, does not represent the height of the saddle above the L pin, as this naturally varies according to the position (turned up or down) in which the rider uses the Saddle-clip.

[Printed page 11.]

Guarantee and Repairs

There are some names which in themselves are guarantees.

We are proud to say that BROOKS is one of these, and that its presence on any article creates a perfect confidence, not only in the article itself, but in the fairness and liberality of the manufacturers, should any question of repair arise during its use.

Each repair is considered on its individual merits, the necessary work carried out in the shortest possible time, and the saddle returned to the owner immediately on completion.

All repairs should be sent preferably by Parcel Post, otherwise by rail, carriage paid. If sent by rail, the label should be marked “Carriage Paid,” as if this is not done a charge is again made to us upon delivery.

In order to ensure prompt return the name and address of the sender should be attached to the saddle itself, and, in addition, a letter should be sent advising its despatch.

If the clip is returned with the saddle, it should be securely attached thereto, as it is very liable to be lost in transit.

When writing for a part for replacement, it is advisable to return the defective part, to avoid delay and confusion.

— Sheet 12. Printed pages 20 and 21 —

[Two page opening, each page carrying two model entries, every one with a halftone side view of the saddle and a spec block set in small capitals at the head. This is the leaf that shows the two height datums side by side: the B 85 is measured to the under surface under the general rule, while the B 40, the B 33 and the B 36 are each measured to the top surface and say so.]

[Printed page 20.]

B 85 and B 85 L Road Saddle (Patent)

FOR GENTLEMEN.
Size 10 1/2 in. x 8 1/2 in.
Weight 2lb. 8 1/2 oz. Height 3 3/8 in.

FOR LADIES.
Size 9 1/2 in. x 8 1/2 in.
Weight 2lb. 6 1/2 oz. Height 3 3/8 in.

PRICE Enamel, 11/- Nickel, 12/6

Graceful in design, B 85 is fitted with a superfine leather top, carefully blocked to shape, and embodies the BROOKS stranded-wire spiral springs, and patent six-wire bracket. B 85 L is similarly designed and will prove an ideal saddle for ladies.

B 40 and B 40 L Road Saddle (Patent)

FOR GENTLEMEN.
Size 10 1/2 in. x 9 1/2 in.
Weight 3lb. 1oz.
Height (to top surface) 3 3/8 in.

FOR LADIES.
Size 9 1/2 in. x 9 1/2 in.
Weight 2lb. 14oz.
Height (to top surface) 3 3/8 in.

PRICE Enamel, 14/- Nickel, 16/-

In this Model the weight is entirely borne by the broad part of the seat by means of special padded under-leather-the breadth is exceptional while the peak is especially narrow, and, being free from any tendency to widen when in use is not felt by the rider. B 40 L is on similar lines.

[Printed page 21.]

B 33 and B 33 L Road Saddle

FOR GENTLEMEN.
Size 10 1/2 in. x 8 1/2 in.
Weight 2lb. 10oz.
Height (to top surface) 3 3/8 in.

FOR LADIES.
Size 9 1/2 in. x 8 1/2 in.
Weight 2lb. 9oz.
Height (to top surface) 3 3/8 in.

PRICE Enamel, 11/6 Nickel, 13/-

B 33 has a top of superior quality leather, carefully formed and fitted with soft leather pads comfortably cushioned.

On account of the real comfort which it ensures, the B 33 L will be especially appreciated by the Lady Cyclist.

B 36 and B 36 L Road Saddle

FOR GENTLEMEN.
Size 2 – Size 11 1/2 in. x 9 in.
Weight 3lb. 1oz.
Height (to top surface) 3 3/8 in.

FOR LADIES.
Size 2 – Size 10 1/2 in. x 9 in.
Weight 2lb. 13oz.
Height (to top surface) 3 3/8 in.

PRICE (Size 2) Enamel, 15/- Nickel, 16/6

Both B 36 and B 36 L provide a luxurious seat, the whole being well cushioned over a stout, strong, and well shaped leather top.

— Sheet 13. Printed pages 22 and 23 —

[Two page opening, two model entries to a page, each with a halftone side view. The left page carries the B 28 above the B 95, the right page the B 90 above the B 90 Padded. This is the leaf that carries the B 90 control and the rubber buffer statement.]

[Printed page 22.]

B 28 Road Saddle (Patent)

MADE IN GENTLEMEN’S MODEL ONLY.
Size 2 – Size 10 1/2 in. x 8 1/2 in.
Weight 2lb. 9 1/2 oz. Height 2 3/8 in.
Size 3 – Size 12 in. x 9 1/2 in.
Weight 2lb. 15oz. Height 2 7/8 in.

PRICE-(Size 2) Enamel, 11/6 Nickel, 13/6
” ( ” 3) ” 13/- ” 15/-

As will be seen from the illustration the BROOKS Rubber Buffers are fitted to this model. The tension screw is readily accessible, and the front loop-coil spring ensures the maximum of ease.

B 95 Road Saddle

MADE IN GENTLEMEN’S MODEL ONLY.
Size 10 1/2 in. x 8 1/2 in.
Weight 2lb. 9 1/2 oz. Height 3 1/8 in.
Size 2 – Size 11 1/2 in. x 9 in.
Weight 2lb. 12oz. Height 3 1/8 in.

PRICE- Enamel, 10/- Nickel, 11/6
” (Size 2) ” 11/- ” 12/6

This is a Saddle which ensures comfort to a maximum degree and yields to the weight of the rider along its entire length the top is well blocked to keep its shape even under the severest wear.

[Printed page 23.]

B 90 Road Saddle (Patent)

MADE IN GENTLEMEN’S MODEL ONLY.
Size 1 – Size 10 1/2 in. x 8 1/2 in.
Weight 2lb. 13oz. Height 3 in. and a fraction not resolved by the scan
Size 2 – Size 11 1/2 in. x 9 in.
Weight 3lb. 3oz. Height 3 in. and a fraction not resolved by the scan
Size 3 – Size 12 in. x 9 1/2 in.
Weight 3lb. 12oz. Height 3 in. and a fraction not resolved by the scan

PRICE (Size 1) Enamel, 11/6 Nickel, 14/-
(Size 2) ” 12/6 ” 15/-
(Size 3) ” 13/6 ” 16/-

The design of this Model is such as to ensure the yielding of the top along its entire length.

Only the finest selected leather is used in its construction, and the BROOKS stranded-wire spiral springs, laminar front spring and patent six-wire bracket, ensure an ideal combination of strength and lightness.

Size 3 can be made in special strengths to order, to suit any weight up to 18 stone.

B 90 Padded Road Saddle (Patent)

MADE IN GENTLEMEN’S MODEL ONLY.
Size 2 – Size 11 1/2 in. x 9 in.
Weight 3lb. 7 1/2 oz.
Height (to top surface) 3 3/8 in.

PRICE-(Size 2) Enamel, 17/- Nickel, 19/6

This Model is constructed on similar lines to the B 90, with the addition of a padded top for those who prefer a softer seat.

Riders who study comfort will find that both this and B 90 in its three sizes offer exceptional ease and resiliency.

— Sheet 20. Printed pages 36 and 37 —

[Two page opening, two entries to a page, each with a halftone. The left page carries the Cape Carrier above the Parcel Carrier Strap, the right page the Military Saddle above the Army Cycle Tool Bag. Both entries on the left page carry period annotation in red ink: the Cape Carrier’s model number is struck through and a new number written above it, and a digit is added to its printed price.]

[Printed page 36.]

B 9450 Cape Carrier

[The printed number B 9450 is struck through in red ink and 2774 is written above it in the same hand.]

PRICE-each 1/6

[The final digit of the price is added in red ink in the same hand.]

This is an exceedingly neat wrap for securely holding and carrying a cape or small parcel on a bicycle. It is fastened to the back stays, behind the saddle, by means of two straps, and is constructed of absolutely waterproof materials.

B 957 Parcel Carrier Strap

Size 30 in. long x 1/2 in. wide.

PRICE per pair 9d.

These Straps are made of good quality leather, with adjustable slide.

They will be found to offer an exceedingly handy and convenient method of carrying parcels, and do not in any way interfere with the freedom of the rider.

[Printed page 37.]

Military Saddle

No. 2 and No. 3 Military.

AS ADOPTED BY H.M. WAR OFFICE.

Size 11 1/2 in. x 9 in.
Weight 1lb. 13oz. Height 2 in.

PRICE (all metal parts bronzed) 11/6

Army Cycle Tool Bag

No. 2

Size 6 3/4 in. x 3 1/4 in. x 1 3/4 in.

PRICE each 4/9

This Bag has been specially designed to meet military requirements, and is made of the finest selected leather.

NOTE.-Special patterns, to suit the requirements of any Territorial Corps, can be made on receipt of particulars.

— Sheet 22. Printed pages 40 and 41 —

[Two page opening closing the book. The left page carries a large halftone of the works seen from a street corner, above the factory description and the list of the firm’s other catalogues. The right page is the blank inside back cover.]

[Printed page 40.]

The Brooks Factory

of which we give an illustration below, is situated in Great Charles Street, Livery Street, and Lionel Street, Birmingham.

It has recently been considerably enlarged to enable us to cope with an ever-increasing business.

The plant and machinery throughout are of the most modern type, the buildings are steam-heated, and lighted throughout by electricity, whilst the entire plant is electrically driven.

We issue separate Catalogues dealing with the following goods

THE BROOKS MOTOR CYCLE SADDLES AND TOURING EQUIPMENT.

THE BROOKS CAR EQUIPMENT SPECIALITIES.

THE BROOKS GENERAL LEATHER GOODS (Wholesale only).