Vintage PLM Paris Lyon Méditerranée padlock, ironwork

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique wrought iron padlock, marked "PLM" for Paris Lyon Méditerranée, is a genuine period railway accessory. The visible side features a round, flat surface with a thick, patinated shackle, typical of padlocks used on French railway lines in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The metallic surface appears browned by time, with visible traces of oxidation, particularly around the keyhole and on the shackle, testifying to its prolonged outdoor use.

The body of the padlock is adorned with four visible golden rivets, arranged at the corners of an engraved grid, enhancing its industrial aesthetic. The inscription "1=2 PLM" is engraved in relief on the front: "PLM" refers to the historic Paris Lyon Méditerranée railway company, while "1=2" likely corresponds to a serial number or an internal network identification. The lock features a classic keyhole-shaped opening, with visible wear and rust marks around the aperture.

The object is photographed in a golden baroque-decorated case, which highlights the padlock's antique patina. The dominant shades are brown, oxidized gold, and darker reflections on the shackle. No internal mechanism or reverse side is visible in this image.

The padlock's surface offers a matte texture, marked by time, with scratches, scuffs, and oxidation pits distributed over the entire face. The overall impression evokes robust craftsmanship, characteristic of period railway security accessories.

The inscriptions are perfectly legible and confirm its authenticity as a piece from the PLM railway network, an emblematic company in the history of transport in France.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Shows significant signs of wear, oxidation, and patina on the visible side. Inscriptions remain clearly visible despite age-related wear. The shackle and keyhole area show advanced corrosion, with no guarantee of mechanism functionality.

Did you know? The PLM company (Paris Lyon Méditerranée), founded in 1857, was one of the main French railway companies before its nationalization in 1938. Padlocks bearing the PLM inscription were used to secure wagons, chests, and technical installations across the network connecting Paris to the French Riviera.

AFW Reassurance

Fast shipping and careful professional packaging. Our expertise guarantees an accurate and secure presentation of each item shipped.

Keywords: railway padlock, antique lock, PLM padlock, PLM lock, Paris Lyon Méditerranée, vintage padlock, 19th century wrought iron, antique padlock, train security, metal padlock, train lock, railway lock