Product Description
The JUY 59 was introduced in 1959 as an updated replacement for the JUY 51. The overall profile is relatively similar, and the 59 has some significant upgrades. First it did away with the complicated and not that effective chain tensioning cable (the 51 used two cables). This made setup and maintenance vastly easier. Second, it added the plastic pulleys that were introduced on the JUY 543 (which also ceased production before the 59 was issued). Third, they made it drop dead gorgeous. The main body is now a flat profile, and chrome plated. It has a riveted on black and gold Simplex "Wing" badge in it's center. The upper pivot now has a black and gold cover plate to match the center badge, depicting "Simplex LJ" surrounded by a wreath of wheat. The shifter features the same cover.
The 59 was Simplex's only top level derailleur in 1959. In 1960, it ran concurrently to the JUY 60 (an upgrade to the JUY 543, lacking the chain tension cable). It was made only for these two years, but was equipped on bikes for a few years after by those who preferred it's classic styling over the 60's covered chain styling which was trying to compete with the Campagnolo Gran Sport.
The late 1950's Simplex Tour De France derailleur was a low end version of the JUY 59. It has the same pivot cover plate, but lacks the center badge. It's cage and body have very basic finishes, and the main body has the same non-flat profile the JUY 51 has. It has the metal pulleys featured on the 51.
The 59 is one of the most rare JUY models. It doesn't sell for the absurd prices the 60 does, but these hardly ever show on the market.
Condition
New old stock, zero signs of use/installation! Derailleur and shifter are complete. The rear derailleur has very minor bits of shop wear. The only imperfection visible from a distance is slight discoloration to the push rod's black cover which is now showing tints of blue. This was common on derailleurs of this age. When you look very closely, you'll notice some tiny imperfections such as a few thin marks on the badge, scattered pinpoint marks on the body and hardware (none worth mentioning), some tiny speks of corrosion beginning on the chain, some marks on the hardware rear side of cage. Pulleys are pristine with zero cracks or deterioration.
The shifter did not age as well. There is some rust on the clamp, and the cover has faded a bit. Cover bolt looks nice. Shifter blade is in great shape. Cable and coil housing has a few crimps from being stored too tightly.
Details
- Chain pull, push rod type