Soldiers try to attach the balloon to their car, June 1944. (Photo by Jared Enos/Mediadrumworld.com)

A man sits waiting for a train on the London Underground in 1890, when the platform floors were still made from wooden floorboards. (Photo by Hi-Story/Alamy Stock Photo)

British sailors taking shore leave on the British dependency of Gibraltar visit the Suiza Bar to watch a Spanish dancer perform on August 05, 1954. These Spanish entertainers are under contract and must return over the border by 11 o'clock. (Photo by Bert Hardy/Getty Images)

The fashion photographer made his name capturing big name models for Vogue. This month, 40 years’ worth of his work will go on show at Photo London and Atlas Gallery, in his first UK solo exhibition. Here: Kristen McMenamy and Linda Evangelista in Paris, for Vogue Germany, 1991. (Photo by Arthur Elgort/Courtesy Atlas Gallery)

Actress Elke Sommer sunbathing on the beach of Cannes during the Cannes film festival, 1961. (Photo by Daniel Fallot/INA via Getty Images)

A workman sweeping the highest sidewalk in the world, the 81st story of the Empire State Building, the world's tallest building, to the top of which the greatest dirigible “Los Angeles” will attempt to moor, New York, New York, early 1930s. This photo was made 1,248 feet above street level. (Photo by Adam Glickman/Underwood Archives/Getty Images)

The expertly colourised shots were brought to life by French bank technician, Frédéric Duriez (51). The images were provided by the Valois collection which belongs to the BDIC. “By colourising these photos, I reduce the time that separates us today from this conflict”, said Frédéric. Here: Car cannon sections in firing position, Auxi-le-Château. (Photo by Frédéric Duriez/BDIC/Mediadrumworld.com)

Two holidaymakers amuse themselves with a porter's trolley whilst waiting for their train at Euston Station, London, 5th August 1939. (Photo by A. J. O'Brien/Fox Photos/Getty Images)