The subject of Brooks saddles, specifically the B-17N led me to ponder a) just when this was first introduced and b) to surmise that this must surely rank as one of the longest lasting cycle component still being manufactured today in largely its original form. I sure can't think of anything comparable that's still around today.
Everything else in cycling has changed out of recognition: I admit I feel dazed and confused just walking into a modern cycle shop nowadays. Where are those yellow Dunlop "long" tyre repair kits, Sturmey Archer oil, Terry trouser clips and Baycliff bags? The B-17N is about the only familiar object even alone amidst those weirdly shaped plastic creations.
Of course the B-17N has changed over the years; my older oval badged ones which I usually ride on have a longer "nose" and best of all the camfered bottom edge. I am not sure when these features were changed. But a 1950s B-17N has to be one of those "perfect" creations; a true cycling "classic".
P.C. Kohler
Washington, DC USA