Malicet et Blin
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Bicycles, Automobiles, Automotive parts, Aircraft engines |
| Founded | 1890 |
| Founder | Paul Malicet, Eugène Blin |
| Defunct | 1925 |
| Fate | Ceased operations |
| Headquarters | Aubervilliers , France |
Area served | France, United Kingdom |
Key people | Paul Malicet, Eugène Blin |
| Products | Bicycles, Automobiles, Automotive parts, Aircraft engines |
Number of employees | 500+ (1914) |
Malicet & Blin (abbreviated as M.A.B.) was a French enterprise engaged in producing bicycles, automobiles, automotive parts, and aircraft engines from 1890 until 1925. The company diversified into the motor vehicle sector by 1897 and ventured into aero engine production by 1914. They manufactured both complete vehicles and incomplete car kits for the British market under the brand name Marlborough.
History
The firm was established in 1890 by Paul Malicet and Eugène Blin in Aubervilliers, a suburb near Paris, initially focusing on bicycle manufacturing. By 1897, their operations expanded to include motor vehicle components such as chassis and steering systems, positioning them as a prominent French supplier in this field. From 1903 onwards, they produced limited runs of fully assembled automobiles bearing the Malicet & Blin name. The company continued its activities until 1925, providing parts to various automakers under the MAB designation. Paul Malicet passed away in October 1923.
Cycles
In 1893, Malicet et Blin secured a patent for a captive ball-bearing race designed for bicycle gears, marketed under the Regina brand. This innovation established their reputation as specialized component suppliers to other manufacturers. This segment of their business was later acquired by SKF in 1967. The company received a silver medal at the Paris Cycle Exposition held in 1900.
Cars
Their automotive production began in 1897 with a Vis-à-vis model seating four passengers, equipped with a 4 CV engine. Subsequent offerings included single-cylinder engines rated at 4 CV, 6 CV, and 8 CV. Notably, surviving examples such as an 1897 4 hp Vis-à-vis and a 1903 Tonneau powered by a 6 hp De Dion-Bouton engine occasionally participate in the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run.
Accessories and components
Malicet & Blin supplied chassis, components, and fully assembled vehicles to numerous manufacturers including Alatac, Bridgwater Motor Company (CCC), Ernst, Excelsior, Eysink, Garage Moderne, Ivor, La Torpille, Lucerna, Marlborough, Mutel, Sigma, and Tuar.
Armaments
During World War I, their manufacturing facility employed over 500 individuals and produced artillery shell warheads.
Aircraft engines
In 1914, Eugene Blin collaborated with Pierre Clerget to initiate production of aircraft engines. These powerplants were used in aircraft such as the Sopwith 1½ Strutter, various bombers, and Louis Schreck's seaplane fighters developed by Franco-British Aviation.