Brooklyn Bridge

[hrt4me]

Anyone familiar with the 'Brooklyn Bridge' copies of the Colt 1851 Navy, manufactured by Ronge & Son of Liege, Belgium?

 

[hrt4me]

here are better photos of one via a closed auction:

Colt Brevete Model 1851 Navy Revolver by Ronge of Liege

 

[hrt4me]

another closed auction:

Belgium - RONGE & SON - Colt - Single Shot - Percussion - Revolver - 10mm Cal

 

[hrt4me]

some discussion by Ian McCollum, Forgotten Weapons:

 

[CyrusP]

An interesting side note to what has lately become my favorite handgun. The 1851 Navy. Thanks.

 

[hrt4me]

An interesting side note to what has lately become my favorite handgun. The 1851 Navy. Thanks.

it seems not too many on here are much interested in anything other than modern Italian replicas, rather than vintage originals and/or historic pieces

 

[dogfood]

it seems not too many on here are much interested in anything other than modern Italian replicas, rather than vintage originals and/or historic pieces

I love the originals. And, being Belgian on my mother's side, I always have had a soft spot for Belgian copies. Problem is, I don't think I can afford the originals. I'm wary of buying antiques online without being able to check them out in person and the only time I've seen an original at a gunshop (a Manhattan Arms 1851 copy) they wanted waaay too much for it, unfortunately).

 

[Notchy Bob]

I had never heard of the "Brooklyn Bridge" revolvers before. This was a very interesting post.

Thank you!

Notchy Bob

 

[hrt4me]

another example:

https://www.proxibid.com/Guns-Milit...ket-Revolver/lotInformation/70184597#topoflot
Excellent Belgian Colt Brevete "Brooklyn Bridge" Model 1849 Pocket Percussion Revolver

"Brooklyn Bridge" revolvers similar to this example are described in "Colt Brevete Revolvers" by Marcot and Paxton on p. 298-307. They are so-named due to the suspension bridge scene often rollmarked on the cylinder, which collectors have since dubbed the Brooklyn Bridge. The top of the barrel is marked "ADDRESS COL SAML NEW MODEL U.S. PATENTED" with the typical "crossed keys" at either end and the caliber is listed as "CAL.38" on the left of the frame. The matching serial number "15" is on the left of the front and back strap and inside both grips. Belgian proofs are visible on the right of the frame and it is fitted with smooth hardwood grips.

 

[ZUG]

it seems not too many on here are much interested in anything other than modern Italian replicas, rather than vintage originals and/or historic pieces

Maybe it's because most of us have not heard of them and don't know how to respond

 

[hrt4me]

yet another example currently at auction:

https://www.gunbroker.com/item/1013776594