Updated 12.30.2009
Date codes on Shimano equipment                 Shimano History web page

Original Shimano Dura Ace
                Introduced in or around 1973, Shimano was the first to battle Campagnolo
dominance of high end racing componentry.
1973 Dura-Ace catalog                        1974 Dura-Ace catalog 

The "Crane" derailleur!	The first D.A. hubs!	A new pattern in the D.A. cranks...	The short-lived DA center pull brake	The side pull brake set!
Dura Ace derailleur set in original packaging.

Shimano AX

     Introduced in 1981, AX parts were perhaps one of the most audacious efforts to redesign modern racing "gear."  The aerodynamic-to-the-max effort made the AX truly ahead of its time! Sadly (?) the world was not ready for this futuristric group and after two years of production, the plug was pulled!
 

SANTE Components
Introduced after the Aero style components in the mid 1980s, Sante was positioned below
Dura Ace and above Ultegra 600.  This group was intended to be a stylish semi Pro level package.
 

DEORE Touring Components
(Before they used that name for Mountain Bike parts!)
A unusual blend of new design and traditional French cues...