Vintage Tour de France magazines

Vintage Tour de France magazines | H is for Home

One of last week’s main purchases combined two areas of interest – namely, vintage ephemera and cycling. This huge quantity of 1950s cycling memorabilia appeared at a local auction and we couldn’t resist.

Tour de France magazine from 1954 | H is for Home

We haven’t done much cycling ourselves in recent years as our big dog provides all the exercise we need, but we still follow it keenly – particularly the Tour De France at this time of year. We’re often distracted from our work when it appears on TV. We love to follow the riders on their journey, both in terms of taking in the stunning French scenery and the sporting competition itself.

We went to watch Le Tour when it passed through Yorkshire (and previously Brighton when we lived there) – and we’re determined to follow the race in our camper van when we eventually get one (we’re still saving up!

'Le miroir de tour 1954'

Back to the ephemera though. It’s mainly in the form of French magazines and brochures – many relating to the Tour de France.

'Miroir sprint' | H is for Home

The vintage Tour de France magazines are packed full of interesting historical photographs, artwork, advertisements and features on riders from the era – famous names such as Louison Bobet, Fausto Coppi and Jacques Anquetil.

Vintage cycling ads | H is for Home

Quite a treat for both cyclists and cycling fans!

Vintage Unis Sport Tour de France map | H is for Home

Some of the magazines even have their original route maps intact which is very rare to find…

Vintage Lambretta Tour de France map | H is for Home

…unused and neatly folded inside.

Portraits of twelve 1950s Tour de France cyclists | H is for Home

They’re perfect for framing and very sought after in themselves – a fabulous find!

Vintage Tour de France magazine feature of Fausto Coppi | H is for Home

We’ll be sorting through them in the coming weeks, having a good browse and then listing them for sale. We might allow ourselves to keep a few pieces, but the majority will be available to buy – watch this space if you’re interested.

2 thoughts on “Vintage Tour de France magazines

  1. Hi any of the 1954 tour stuff for sale yet?
    My brother is 70 on July 8 and a keen cyclist. Might make a good present. Thanks Duncan.

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