1950 - Professional ice axe Claudius Simond + Gillet CAB

Vintage hybrid Claudius Simond + Gillet CAB ice axe – 1950s-60s – French alpinism collectible piece

For sale: this ancient authentic ice axe loaded with history, made in the French Alps in the heart of the post-war golden age of alpinism (1950s – early 1960s).
Markings:
One side: Claudius Simond Chamonix Mont-Blanc with ibex logo in a laurel crown, inscription "DIAMONTHUS SIMOND" (variant "diamond" for exceptional hardening), No. 2 (classic versatile model with a wide adze), and the number 58 (likely original length or reference).
Other side: Gillet CAB engraved twice (on the adze and the head) – mark of a rare Alpine blacksmith/artisan (probably Chamonix/Sallanches), often subcontractor or local repairer.
This ice axe is a typical “hybrid” specimen of the era: head forged originally by Claudius Simond (the most renowned in Chamonix), then repaired or partially rebuilt by Gillet (wear, breakage or customization by a guide/ mountaineer). These “living history” pieces are highly sought after by collectors, as they tell the real mountain life (local repairs by neighborhood craftsmen).
Features:
Total length: about 72-75 cm (straight wooden handle, likely ash, conical-point ferrule).
Forged carbon steel head (patina rust of the era, but no deep corrosion).
Large triangular (teardrop) adze, straight serrated pick for mixed snow/ice.
Versatile “alpinism course” model: ice axe-pick, self-belay, snow ridges – not a modern curved technical tool.
Condition: good for ~70 years (authentic patina, normal wear, teeth sharp, handle solid with no major crack). Ready to decorate a chalet, personal museum or vintage collection.
Why is it rare?
Gillet CABs are sparsely documented and far rarer than pure Simond axes. Simond hybrids are more attractive as a beautiful French historical object at the foot of Mont-Blanc.