@broadaxe
Thanks for the information. It seems quite logical to assume that electric epee fencing was reserved for competitions only (same goes for cable-less fencing today ).
I wouldn't say that blades with a groove for the electric wire in the ricasso are automatically post 1940. If you check the pictures below, you will see, that the blade doesn't have a groove, but is fitted with a point d'arret in a shape used in the late 40ties and 50ties (if I'm not mistaken).
Thanks for posting the link. Looks like a fine weapon even if I can't read the marking

(perhaps someone elso can read it)
Which company used the "PR" marking? Does anyone know for sure? I would guess Prieur, but I have no proof so far...
@ Chris
Thanks for the flowers

it is especially the guard of which I'm very fond of... if requested I may post a close up picture.
William