Rare Vintage IDEALE TB 48 Leather Saddle w/ Duralumin Rails, French Bike Seat

Description

Very rare Ideale 48 saddle.
I recently acquired a very throwback, 1974 Gitane with this seat on it. The bike came with paperwork for the bike (purchased in 1974) as well as this seat. The Ideale paperwork is marked 1974 (which I presume to represent the seat was purchased with the bike when new.). But, also, the Ideale paperwork indicates 1962 - which I can only assume was the date of manufacture of the seat, but I don’t know.
I haven’t done anything to spruce the seat up. Given the shape of - and accessories on - the bike, it is clear that the bike and seat were well loved and respected and used. The leather is very firm but not dried out - supple but not not soft. Exactly where a person would want it.
That said, it’s definitely used. In addition to the normal wear and tear, the bottom cardboard/paper layer has a rip right at the anatomical indent.
To me, the leather is thicker than my Ideale 90 as well as any of the Brooks seats I’ve had over the years- but I don’t know this to be fact.
Comes with the seat clamp and the paperwork.
Very hard to come by - they just aren’t out there. As far as I know, one of the first anatomical - cutout type designs.
It’s a total hotrod of a seat - perfect for your next randonneur, Eroica, or touring build.
Free shipping in the lower 48 states. Willing to ship anywhere else at buyer’s expense.
Happy to provide any additional pics - of the bike or the seat. Shout with questions.
Thanks