C.I.J (Compagnie industrielle du jouet) sheet metal toy. 2nd - Lot 31

C.I.J (Compagnie industrielle du jouet) sheet metal toy. 2nd series, gray, circa 1928/30 (no CIJ logo) Rack-and-pinion steering, compass shocks engraved with the name Excelsior - AFA, identical to those mounted on the real car, and crank. Spring mechanism in working order, with original key. Michelin-marked spiked tires. Seat painted in cracked leather L: 55 cm. Good overall condition - some light repainting on the front axle. Notes : This mechanical toy in sheet metal is based on the famous Alfa-Romeo P2 that won the French GP in Lyon in 1924, with Guiseppe Campari (1892-1933) on board. Antonio Ascari (1888-1925), the driver who led the Scuderia Alfa Romeo to victory in the 1925 Grand Prix season, won the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa Francorchamps in a number 2 Alfa Romeo P2, but died at Montlhéry on July 26, 1925. His compatriot Gastone Brilli-Peri wins the 1925 championship for Italian manufacturer Alfa Romeo. The replica was launched in 1925 by Les Jouets Migault (LGM), and production ceased in 1939 under the name Compagnie Industrielle du Jouet (CIJ), LJM having become CIJ in 1927. Literature : G. F. MESTROT, Alfa Romeo P2 Ultimate Book, AD CLIC, 2013. P.M. FAVELAC, Les Jouets Mécaniques, Massin éditeur, 2000. Au Printemps, Jouets Etrennes, Catalogue Commercial, Catalogue Commercial 1926, illustrated p. 11 Mestre et Blatgé, Noël 1938-étrennes 1939, trade catalog, illustration p. 9