I'm in the process of restoring a 1970 Mercier 200. In stripping down the original alloy handlebars to prep them for shellacking, I discovered that they were slightly bent out of shape.
After trying to straighten them myself (w/o success), I took them to my LBS. They confirmed the futility in attempting to bend them back. I then inquired whether they had any old alloy bars that would be a suitable substitution. After rooting around in the back, Rob the mechanic came back with an old alloy bar that was almost a perfect match (which, BTW, he provided to me gratis -- Note: it pays to patronize your LBS!!!).
Unlike the original plain bars, however, this one is inscribed with two crests: one consists of a globe surrounded by a wreath and surmounted by a star projecting a ray of light downwards, while the other consists of shield with two crossed plumes surrounded by three crosses and surmounted by a crown. This second crest also has the word "GRUID" inscribed in large stylized letters (it could also be "CRUID" or "BUID" -- the first letter[s] are hard to read). A smaller "marque deposee" or Registered Trademark is inscribed underneath.
I couldn't get any meaningful hits on either GRUID/CRUID/BUID using my favorite search engine (Google.com). Does anyone out there know the history of this brand? The funny thing is that the exact same shield with crossed plumes, crown, and crosses appears on the Mercier's seat tube decal, above a red white and blue french rooster. One heck of a coincidence, don't you think! Or is this some standard french cycling organization's crest?
Any insights into the bar's brand/manufacturer from francophilic cyclists cum heraldry aficionados are appreciated.
Thanks,
Ian Kersey