Chemistry lesson

At Sandringham this morning.

This is a car headlight, 1899 style. Calcium carbide powder in a chamber behind the lamp's mirror, water drips onto it and acetylene is generated by the ensuing chemical reaction. The driver lights the gas with a match and lo and behold - let there be light. For my American friends - you can just make out the lamps were made in Wisconsin, Aug 25, 1903 by Badger Brass Mfg Co, Kenosha - a new meaning for retro fit.

The car is a Panhard and Levassor, made in France and once owned by Charles Rolls, cofounder with Henry Royce of the very upmarket car and aero-engine manufacturer.

The owner is polishing it up in the extras and his tin of Brasso is just visible. He was quite elderly and the car is even older. Today, after 118 years we like to change our cars rather more frequently.