I hate to jump into this thread but I was reading through trying to gain some more knowledge about a V-C that I just put on layaway... and wouldn't you know, Raimey just posted a picture of the V-C 16 gauge Helistop that I just put on layaway!!!
So here's what I know about it. Someone directed me to the 1939 V-C catalogue (I will post a link) and sent me to page 25, where there happens to be a drawing identical to the helistop I just purchased. I don't pretend to know any French but it seems that in 1939 there were 5 models of sxs offered. PIONNIER - HELISTOP - HELICOBLOC - and then a sideplate version HELICOBLOC and HELIDUPLEX. All of which come with a variety of options.
I have no background in French whatsoever. maybe this catalogue can add to the current discussion but I wouldn't mind someone telling me anything they could about the HELISTOP pictured above as well.
http://www.verney-carron.com/pdf/catalogue-1939-FR-Verney-Carron.pdf