"If you do something twice, it's a tradition," is a saying from Cologne Carnival. So the Dutch A-market, organized by the "Enige Echte Eenden Club", can rightly call itself an institution. For those not familiar with Citroën: In the double-angle scene, the term 'A-Types' is used to describe the 2CV, commonly known as the 'duck' (but called the 'goat' in the Flemish-speaking part of Belgium for some unknown reason), as well as all related types that are also powered by the well-known two-cylinder boxer engine.
As most Citroën enthusiasts are rather liberal (as long as it is not a question of beliefs such as headlights behind glass or not on the DS or with or without a spare wheel at the rear on the Traction Avant...), owners of other Citroën model series are also welcome at the event.
The weather this time was more autumnal than spring-like, which perhaps had a slight effect on the number of visitors: some exhibitors reported that there were slightly fewer interested visitors than in previous years. Nevertheless, the atmosphere in the premises of the restaurant "De Kokse Hoeve" was as great as ever. Beautifully situated in the countryside and about three quarters of an hour from the cities of Nijmegen and 's-Hertogenbosch, there were plenty of tables for suppliers of spare parts, model cars, books and brochures. Larger body parts were on sale in the outdoor sales areas.
Niclas Heynen from Autex in Schwalmtal has been a vendor at the A market for several years. "Until now, we've always had a stand inside, but this time we've applied for an outdoor space," he said. "Unfortunately, it's not really warm, but at least it's mostly dry." Heynen mainly offered parts for the Citroën 2CV and particularly appreciates the atmosphere at the A-Markt: "The atmosphere is always good, very informal. People are in a good mood because the season is starting again. The offer here consists mainly of used parts. As we offer new goods, we always try to make sure that we have what is otherwise not generally available." The fact that the event takes place at a restaurant is an additional advantage, says Heynen: "The food is really very good!"
Parts and collectibles are one thing, but the cars are at least as important. On a large grassy area next to the restaurant, visitors found a large selection of Citroën models. 2CVs were in the majority, but Dyane, Ami 6 and 8, Visa and Méhari were also present, as well as larger model series such as GS and GSA, DS, CX and C6. Some cars were offered for sale. Overall, the organizers again drew a positive conclusion after this year's A-Market: many vendors have already registered for next year's event.
