37mm Hotchkiss Projectile Marking question ~

[Gspragge]

This Hotchkiss pattern projectile appears to be marked for the French Navy.
But the markings also seem to imply that it was not made by Hotchkiss.
A comparison of two later 1890s French Mle 1888 common shell for markings.
The red upper colouration, is this a French style ? It's odd to me -
Any suggestions are welcome.

 

[Hoeksel]

J. Roth, Bratislava?

 

[Gspragge]

I think that name came into being around 1923, too late for this I suspect.

 

[Hoeksel]

Good point, agree, projectile too early.

 

[37bis]

Hello Gordon,
I don't know the meaning of RFM.I have the years (18)92, 93, 94 and 98 on the French HE model 1888 shells.

 

[Hoeksel]

Could it be RF and M are separated? RF is a known French metal supplier (Entrepôt de réserve générale de la Ferté Hauterive, La Ferté (metal supplier)).
Not sure if it makes sense, but M is a powder supplier (Poudrerie Moulin Blanc).

 

[Gspragge]

I think this is the answer, I quote;
"I think that R F M means Ruelle Fonderie de la Marine (French Naval Foundry at RUELLE near ANGOULEME / Maker of the Navy guns, shells and cartridge cases. "