Item Details
- Seller: Rcm5647050
- Location: Pueblo County, CO, 81003
- Lot #: M-0035249
Available for auction is a Michelin Bibendum 380 volt motor "Force" garage/shop air compressor. The seller states these air compressors were made from 1934-1936, and it is estimated that less than 4000 were ever made, as they were expensive to make and expensive to buy. 
In regards to its history, there were two manufacturers of these compressors, the first was Luchard of Paris, followed by Worthington of France. This specific model is a Luchard, the earlier and more desirable of the two. Previously, this model was found still operating in an auto repair shop in the South of France, and was imported to the US. Recently, an unrestored Luchard sold at Barrett-Jackson in 2019 for $23,000.00.
It has received a partial cosmetic restoration. It is 100% original, other than the air pressure lever and the air pressure gauge which are both non-functioning reproductions. The rear of the motor and the wheels, cord and hoses have been left in as-found condition. All of the original brass pieces remain. The seller states they have not attempted to run the compressor as it has an EU plug and the main on/off switch has been bypassed. The buyer is responsible for shipping, handling, and fees.
Auction Results
- Highest Bid: $8,500
- Auction End: Oct 18, 2023 08:06:00PM UTC
- Number of Bids: 3
Comments (7)
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Hello Bibendum Fans! I cannot stress how few of these are in the US, as shipping is the factor. Speaking of which, I will include a photo of the crate used to ship this unit here. I kept it and will use it to ship to whomever wins this auction. Crate and crating will be included in the winning bid. Buyer will only be responsible for actual shipping cost. Thanks again for your interest and GOOD LUCK! Richard
Bid in the amount of $8,500
Bid in the amount of $7,500
Hello. Thanks for all the interest in my Bibendum shop air compressor! My name is Richard and I am here to help and answer any and all questions. Please feel free to contact me with any questions either through this site.
I have 3 of these units and am selling one to fund another project. I searched for years to get one, and then they multiplied! They are very rare, especially in the US. I was surprised by the size when I received my first unit, I thought they were bigger, that's why I included the photo with the dinning chair. All three of mine are very original. This one came covered in surface rust and red oxide primer. I left the "sash' and rear of motor, wheels, axil and axil supports as they came for future reference. The sash is as it came to me and I assume original paint?! I am not an expert on the cord and plug, but I assume it can be converted and I assume that if the cord, oil, conections, and hoses were addressed, it would operate. Thanks for your interest, Richard
Interesting color scheme on the sash. I assume it's original? Do you think the cord can be converted to US specs and still operate?
Bid in the amount of $1,000