TA Criterium REF 1500 Alloy Crankset: "Cottered" - 1950's - Phil Wood BB - Fluted -

This was T.A.'s very first crank they ever produced, in the late 1950's.  It is also considered the first production alloy crank ever made.  It is a revolutionary cottered-but-not-cottered design, that's half cottered and half square taper. The spindle started as a cottered profile, but one side of it is squared off.  This was a big upgrade from cottered (the only option at the time).  No more hammering out cotter pins, no more special removal tools, and a more secure bb to crank interface.  Plus, it was nearly half as light as other high end offerings of the day!  This is a VERY rare component, and would be lovely on a French randonneur show bike from the 50's or early 1960's.  These would have been a top contender for a Concours De Machines technical trials event with their absurdly light weight.

This one includes a Phil Wood bottom bracket made for this crank.  The only reference to this BB on the internet says it was Phil's 1st bottom bracket, but I have absolutely no data to support or oppose that.  It includes it's original chainrings and chainring bolts, as well as the crank mount pins!  The pins are in excellent shape, though they are missing the smaller thread on ends to secure the spindle.  These will secure the crank on the BB solidly for display use, but I would recommend machining the simple pieces if you plan to ride this. 

Condition 

 excellent condition!  The chainrings show minimal tooth wear, and look amazing.  The original chainring bolts are in show worthy condition.  Crank arms are highly polished, and overall would look nice on a show bike.  There is some very light microscratching throughout in the finish, as well as a few deeper marks on the fronts of the arms.  The arm ends are very clean, with the slightest of marks.  The bottom bracket spins smoothly.

Details

• Alloy arms 
• Length: 170mm
• Chainrings: 52/43t
• Bottom bracket length: 132.5mm
• Threads: Italian threaded rings (this uses standard Phil Wood BB rings, can replace with modern English or French threaded rings
• Pedal threads: English 9/16"