Bardon (France) - AllCarIndex

Bardon was a French automobile manufacturer that operated from 1899 to 1903. The company was initially established as SA des Automobiles et Traction (système Bardon) in Puteaux, Seine, before rebranding to Automobiles Bardon in 1901. The founder, Louis Bardon, was known for his innovative approach to engine design, utilizing horizontal opposed-piston engines of the Gobron-Brillie type. These engines featured two pistons, crankshafts, and flywheels per cylinder, with a unique system that allowed for three speeds through a transverse shaft engaging with a differential shaft. The final drive was accomplished using double chains.

The first model produced by Bardon was equipped with a 4/5 horsepower single-cylinder engine mounted under the floor. In 1901, the company introduced a more powerful front-mounted 10 horsepower twin engine. That same year, Bardon merged with the Gaillardet company, which specialized in proprietary engines and the DOCTORESSE car. Production of Bardon vehicles took place in the factory of Frédéric Gaillardet for a significant portion of the company's existence.

Financial support for Bardon came from Pierre de la Ville le Roulx, who had connections with the Westinghouse company. In addition to passenger cars, Bardon also manufactured commercial vehicles, which continued production for a year after the cessation of car manufacturing. The company faced financial difficulties, leading to a halt in production from 1905 to 1906, after which the factory was acquired by Georges Richard for the production of UNIC cars. Notably, a majority shareholding in Richard's company was held by Baron Henri de Rothschild, who owned the land on which the Bardon factory was situated.