Model Car 1936 Peugeot 402 Eclipse beige
Scale 1/43
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Peugeot 402 Eclipse beige 1936 - An exceptional miniature in 1/43 scale
This miniature beige 1936 Peugeot 402 Eclipse represents one of the most iconic models of the French interwar period. Faithfully reproduced at a scale of 1:43, this collector's item captures all the elegance and innovation of this revolutionary convertible that marked its era.
A true collector's item for car and history enthusiasts, this miniature is a testament to French expertise in car design in the 1930s, a period of great creativity and technical audacity.
Characteristics of the miniature
- Model: 402 Eclipse
- Brand: Peugeot
- Year: 1936
- Scale: 1/43rd
- Color: Beige
- Protective case included: Yes
The Peugeot 402 Eclipse: An automotive revolution
Launched in 1935, the Peugeot 402 Eclipse represented a true technical feat for its time. The world's first convertible with an electrically retractable hardtop, this car revolutionized the very concept of the convertible. The Eclipse system, patented by engineer Georges Paulin, allowed the metal roof to disappear entirely into the trunk in just a few seconds.
Built on the basis of the 402 sedan, the Eclipse benefited from the same aesthetic innovations as its sister: headlights integrated into the grille, aerodynamic lines and a monocoque body. Its 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine developed respectable power for the time, offering attractive performance to a wealthy clientele seeking modernity.
Despite its high price, equivalent to that of two 402 sedans, the Eclipse met with notable critical success , with around 580 examples produced until 1940, testifying to the appeal of this avant-garde technology.
Peugeot in the 1930s: The Golden Age of Innovation
In the 1930s, Peugeot was undergoing a period of intense creativity under the leadership of Eugène Peugeot and his engineering teams. The lion brand, with its century-long experience in metallurgy, established itself as one of the most innovative manufacturers in Europe. This decade marked the advent of revolutionary models like the 301, the 401, and of course the 402.
The family business, then run by the third generation of Peugeot, relied on technical innovation and avant-garde design to stand out from the competition. Collaborating with renowned coachbuilders and visionary engineers like Georges Paulin enabled Peugeot to create cars that left a lasting mark on the history of French motoring. This philosophy of innovation continues to characterize the brand today, echoing the technical audacity of the 1930s .
The Eclipse: Star of the salons and muse of filmmakers
The Peugeot 402 Eclipse was not only a technical feat; it quickly became a symbol of French modernity and elegance. Its retractable roof fascinated crowds at European motor shows, where demonstrations drew hundreds of curious onlookers amazed by this mechanical "magic." The Eclipse was notably presented at the 1935 Paris Motor Show, where it literally eclipsed the competition.
The world of cinema quickly seized upon this exceptional automobile. Several French films of the time featured the Eclipse, exploiting its spectacular side and its image of accessible luxury. The directors of the time understood that this car perfectly embodied the spirit of innovation and modernity that characterized France in the 1930s.
A delightful anecdote tells of a wealthy Parisian collector who organized a social gathering in 1937, the highlight of which was a choreography of six Eclipses synchronizing the opening and closing of their roofs to the rhythm of a jazz orchestra. This spectacular demonstration, filmed by the newsreels of the time, greatly contributed to the renown of this exceptional model.
Even today, the few surviving Eclipses are among the most sought-after French automobiles by collectors worldwide, testifying to the lasting impact of this technical innovation on the automotive imagination.
Complete your collection of exceptional model cars
This Peugeot 402 Eclipse is a natural fit for any collection dedicated to French automobiles from the interwar period. It blends perfectly with other iconic models from this prosperous period, including the Citroën Traction Avant and the Talbot Lago from the same era.
Collectors passionate about automotive innovation will enjoy sharing it with other revolutionary concept cars or models from the 1940s that perpetuated this pioneering spirit. This miniature is aimed at both French car enthusiasts and collectors specializing in exceptional convertibles .
Perfect for enriching a thematic collection on the evolution of automotive design or on significant technical innovations, this miniature Eclipse makes an ideal conversation piece, combining history, technology and aesthetics in a refined collectible.
Même marque : Peugeot
Même origine : française
Frequently Asked Questions
How to understand the scales of miniatures?
Scale indicates the reduction ratio between the real car and the miniature. For example, at 1:43 scale, each centimeter on the miniature corresponds to 43 centimeters on the real vehicle.
Concretely, a 1/18 scale Ferrari model is approximately 25-30 cm long, while in 1/43 scale it measures approximately 10 cm.
What scales are available?
Our model cars are mainly offered in 1/43, 1/24, 1/18 and 1/87 (HO) scales. The scale is always indicated in the product sheet.
The smaller the second number, the larger the model car (e.g. 1/18 is larger than 1/43).
Does the model car come with protection?
Yes, each model car is systematically delivered in its protective box. This box preserves the collectible value and protects your model car from dust and shocks.
How is my package protected during transport?
We package each order with the utmost care: bubble wrap, appropriate cushioning, and polystyrene. Your model car is perfectly secure during its journey.
What is the delivery time?
In-stock items are shipped within 24-48 hours. Please allow 2-3 business days for France via Colissimo or 4-5 days via Mondial Relay.
The model car is no longer in stock, when will you have it?
It's impossible for me to know exactly when I'll receive a new stock because I receive arrivals in dribs and drabs. Please contact me so I can keep you informed as soon as it's available.
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