DIECAST TOYS A TO Z
Aardvark, ABC Brianza (see Brianza), A. C. Williams (see Williams, A. C.), Accucast, Action-Performance, ADJ, Advanced Products Company, Agat, AGM, AHC, Ahi, AHL (see American Highway Legends), Alezan, ALJ, All-American, All American Toy Company, Alloy Forms Inc., Alterscale, American Highway Legends, American Precision Models, Ampersand, AMR (also see Century), AMT, Anguplas, Anso (see Anson), Anson, APM (see American Precision Models), Aquli, A.R., Arbur, Arcade, Arpra, ARS, ART, Asahi, Aurora Cigar Box, Authenticast (see Comet), Auto Buff, Autohobby, Auto Pilen (also see Pilen), Auto Replicas, Autoreplica, Aviva (also see Hasbro), BAM (Boutique Auto Moto), Bandai, Bandi, Bandii, Bang, Banthrico, Barlux, Barclay, Basteltip, BBR, Bburago (also see Martoy), Beaut, Beckman Collection, Benbros, Benson Brothers (see Benbros), Best, Belgium Trucks, Big River, Bijou (see Modelauto), Bison, Bitsi-Toys (see Lehigh), Blue Box, Boley, Bonux (also see Cle), Boss, Bossat Dermov, Bourbon, Box Model, Brand S, Breslin, Brianza, Brickyard 400 by Action (see Action-Performance), Britains, British Motoring Classics, Brookfield Collectors Guild, Brooklands, Brooklins, Bruder, Brumm, Buby, Buccaneer, Budgie (also see Morestone), Bugattiana (see Modelauto), Burago (see Bburago), Busch Praline (see Praline), Bush, Carmania, C.A.W. Novelty Company, CBCar, CCC, C.D., CDC (see Detail Cars), Century (see AMR), Chad Valley, Champion, Charbens, Charmerz (also see Playart), Chico (see Tekno), Chrono, Ciba, Cigar Box (see Aurora), CIJ, City (see Vitesse), CKO, Classic Construction Models, Classy Chassies (see MegaMovers), Clau-Mar, Cle, Clover, CMA, CMC, Code 3 Collectibles, Cofradis, Collector Case, Collector's Classics, Comet - Authenticast, Comet Miniatures, Con-Cor, Conquest, Conrad, COPy CARS, Corgi, CPM, Craftoys, Cragstan, Creative Masters (see Revell), Crescent, Cristian, Crossway Models, Crown Premium, C-Scale, Cursor, Custom Miniatures, Dalia (also see Tekno), Danbury Mint, Danhausen, Darda, Days Gone (see Lledo), DDR, Dehanes, Deles, Dent, Deoma, Design Studio, Desormeaux, Detail Cars, DG, DG Productions, Diamond, Diapet, Dimension 4, Dinkum, Dinky, DMP, Doepke, Doorkey, Dugu, Duravit, Durham, Dust & Glory (see Great American Dreamcar), Dux, Dyna-Mo (see Dyna-Model), Dyna-Model, Eagles Race (formerly Jouef), Edil, Edocar (see Zee Toys / Zylmex), EFE (see Exclusive First Editions), Efsi, E.G.M., Eidai (also see Grip Zechin), Eko, Eligor, Elysee, Enchanted, Enchantment Land Coach Builders, Enstone Emergency Models, EPI, Eria, Erie, Ertl, Esci, Escuderia Pilen (see Auto Pilen), Esdo, Eska, Espewe, Estetyka, Excel, Exclusive First Editions, Faie, Fairfield Mint, Faller, Faracar, Fastwheel (see Yat Ming), Feil, Fidart, Fimcar, Finoko, First Choice, First Gear, Forma, 43rd Avenue, Fournier Enterprises, France Jouets, Franklin Mint, Freeway Flyers, Freewheels, Frobly, Fun Ho!, Gad (see Great American Dreamcar), Gaia, Galgo, Galoob, (see Micro Machines), Gama, Gamda (also see Sabra), Gasquy, Gaz (see Volga), Gege, Gems & Cobwebs, generic, Gescha, Gingell, Giodi, Gloor, Golden Wheel (also see Ja-Ru), Goldvarg, Gonio, Goodee, Grand Prix, Great American Dreamcar, Grip Zechin (also see Eidai), Guiloy, Guisval, Hallmark, Hartoy, Hasbro (also see Aviva), Herpa, Hess, High Speed, Highway Travelers, Hot Wheels, HP Toys, Hubley, Husky, Icibi, Igra, Imperial, Impy, Imra, Intercar (see Nacoral), Intex, (see Zee Toys / Zylmex), Irwin, Ites, Jaco, Jane Francis Toys, Ja-Ru, Je Toys, Jemini, JEP, Jet, JLE (see Ertl), Joal, Johnny Lightning (also see Topper Toys), Jolly Roger, Jouef (also see Universal Hobbies Ltd. Inc.), Joustra, JRD, JRI (see Road Champs), JTE, Juguinsa, Jurgens, K&M, K&O, K&R, Kado, Kansas Toy & Novelty Company, Kawada, Kazan, Kenna, Kenner, Kenton, Kibri, Kidco, Kiddie Car Classics, Kiddietoy (see Hubley), Kiko (Corgi Jr.), Kim Classics, King K, Kingsbury, King Star, Kirby, Kyosho, Lada, Lansdowne (see Brooklin), Lansing Slik-Toys, Le Jouet Mecanique, Le Phoenix, Legends of Racing Inc., Lehigh Bitsi-Toys, Leksakshust, Lemeco, Les Rouliers, Les Routiers, Lesney (see Matchbox), Liberty Classics (see Spec-Cast), Lincoln, Line Mar, Lintoy, Lion Car, Lionel, Litan, Lixin, LJN, Lledo, Loden Aquli, Lomo, Londontoy, Lone Star, Lucky Plan, Luso, M C Toys (see Maisto), Ma, Madmax, Magnason Models, Maisto, Majorette, Mangalick, Mandarin, Manoil, Mark 1 Collectibles, Marklin, Marque, Mars, Marsh, Martino Models, Martoy, Marusan, Marushin, Marx, Mascot, Master Models, Matchbox, Maxwell, Max Models (see Paul's Model Art), Mattel (see Hot Wheels), McGregor, Mebetoys, Meccano (see Dinky), MegaMovers (see Megatoys), Megatoys, Mego, Mercury, Message Models (also see Fun Ho!), Metalcar, Metal Cast Products Company, Metal Miniatures, Metalcar, Metosul, Mettoy (also see Corgi), Miber, Microchamps (see Paul's Model Art), Micro Machines, Micro Models, Micromodels (see Deoma), Micropet, Microtoys (see Deoma), Midgetoys, Midget Toys (see Midgetoys), Midwestern Home Products, Mignon, Mikansue, Milano, Milestone Models, Milton, Minialuxe, Miniautotoys (see Dugu), Miniature Auto Emporium, Miniature Vehicle Castings Inc., Minic (see Tri-Ang), Minichamps (see Paul's Model Art), Minimac, Mini Marque, Mini Racing, Miniroute, Mira, Mitrecraft, MK Models, Meboto, ModelCast, Model Pet (see Asahi), Model Power, Model Toys (see Doepke), Models of Yesteryear (see Matchbox), Moko (also see Matchbox), Montego, Morestone (also see Budgie), Moskovich, Motor City USA, Mountain Service International (see Pole Position Collectibles), MR, MRE, MVC, Nacoral Intercar, National Toys, Nevco, Nevins, New Clover, New-Ray, New Trax, Nicky, Nigam, N.J. International, Norev, Nostalgic, Novacars, NZG, Oddzon, OGDI Toys of Yesterday, Oldcars, Omega, Onyx (see Vitesse), Original Omnibus Company, Oto, Oxford Die-Cast Company, Paradise Garage, Paragon Models & Art, Past-Time Hobbies (see PTH), Pathfinder, Paul's Model Art, Paya, Peachstate Muscle Car Collectors Club, PEM (Precision Engineered Models), Penjoy, Pepe, Pilen (see Auto Pilen), Platypus, Playart, Playing Mantis (see Johnny Lightnings), Play Power, Playskool, Playtrucks, PM, Pocher, Poclain, Pole Position Collectibles, Polistil (see Politoys), Politoys/Polistil, Poll, PP Models, Praline, Prameta, Precision Autos, Precision Miniatures, Pride Lines, Process, Progetto, Protar, Provence Moulage, PTH Models, Quarter Mile (see Great American Dreamcars), Quartzo, Quiralu, R&M, R. W. (see Ziss), Race Image Collectibles (see Corgi), Raceway Replicars, Racing Champions, Racing Collectables Inc. (RCI), Racing Collectables Club of America Inc. (RCCA; see Racing Collectables Inc.), Radar, Radon, Rae, Raf, Ralstoy, Rami, Rapide (see Modelauto), Rapitoy, Ra-Ro, RCCA (Racing Collectables Club of America Inc.; see Racing Collectables Inc.), RCI (see Racing Collectables Inc.), Reader's Digest, Real Cars (see Esci), Real Wheels (see Ja-Ru), Realtoy, Record, Redbox, Rei, Renaissance, Replex, Replicars, Reuhl, Revell, Revival, Rex, Rextoys, Rhino, Richmond, Rio, Rivarossi, Road Champs, Road Legends (see Yat Ming), Road Machine, Roadmates, Road Rovers, Road Runners (see MegaMovers), Road Tough (see Yat Ming), Robeddie (see Brooklins), Roberts, Roco, Rolux, Ross, Rosso, Rozkvet, Ruestes, Rullero, Russ, Russian models, RW (see Ziss), Sablon, Sabra/Gamda, Safar, Safir, Sako, Sakura, Salza, Sam Toys, Saratov, Savoye, Scale Models (see Ertl), Schabak, Schuco, Schwung, Schylling, Scottoys, Septoys, Shinsei, Sibur, Sieper Werke (see Siku), Siku, Silhouette, Sizzlers, Sky, Slik-Toys (see Lansing Slik-Toys), SM, Small Wheels and Western Models, Smer, SMTS, Smith-Miller, Solido, Somerville, Spec-Cast, Speed Wheels, Speedway Collection, Speedy Power, Spot-On, Stahlberg (or Stallberg), Starter, Streamlux, Strombecker (see Tootsietoys), Stylish Cars, Sun Motor Company (see Modelauto), Sunnyside, Superior, SVP, Swan Hill, Taiseiya, Takara, Tak-A-Toy, Tamiya, Tbilisi, TD, Tekno, TfC (see Toys for Collectors), Thomas Toys, Tintoys, Tip Top Toy Co., Tomica, Tomy (also see Tomica), Tonka, Tonkin, Tootsietoys, Top Gear, Top Marques, Top Model Collection, Toy Collector Club of America (see First Gear), Toys for Collectors, Trax (see Top Gear), Tri-Ang, Trident, Tron, Turtle Creek, Uaz, Universal (see Matchbox), Universal Hobbies Ltd. Inc. (also see Jouef), USA Models, U.S. Model Mint, UT (also see Paul's Model Art), Vanguard (see Lledo), Vanbo, Vanke (see Vanbo), Verem, VF Modelautomobile Germany, Victoria (also see Vitesse), Vilmer, Vitesse (also see Victoria), Vivid Imaginations (Tyco Canada), Voiturette (see SMTS), Volga, Walker Model Service, Welly, Western Models, White Rose Collectibles, Williams A. C. (see A. C. Williams), Winross, Xonex, Yat Ming, Yatming (see Yat Ming), Yaxon, Yoder, Yorkshire, Yot, Yidalux, Zaugg, Zax, Zee Toys, Zchopau, Zil, Ziss, Zowies (see Hot Wheels), Zyll (see Zee Toys), Zylmex (see Zee Toys
DIECAST TOYS A TO Z
ALL
AMERICAN TOY COMPANY
Clay Steinke, founder of the All American Toy Company of
Salem, Oregon, produced a total of 26,000 1:12 scale cast metal
toy trucks from its beginnings in 1948 to 1955. Its assortment of
large scale toy trucks distinctive for their "air horn
steering" includes the popular Timber Toter log truck,
popular with children whose families worked in the Pacific
Northwest logging industry. They originally sold for around $20,
considered high-priced for toys back in the 1950s. Today's values
are in the hundreds, even thousands of dollars. Model numbers
appeared on the box only, not on the model.
After a false restart in 1990, the All American Toy Company is
back in business in its home town of Salem, Oregon, purchased
lock, stock and barrel in 1992 by Patrick Russell, with all the
original tooling intact. The company is now reproducing some of
those classic models. Here is a list of available new models and
prices. As you will note, current second market values are
already on the rise.
Website: http://www.allamericantoyco.com
ALTERSCALE
It seems there is (and apparently has been for over thirty
years) a select group of collectors of scale model outboard boat
motors. A book has been written about them, and their are just a
few websites devoted to them. Two manufacturers come to light: K
& O brand models apparently manufactured diecast and plastic
boat motors from 1952 to 1962. Alterscale now produces several
precision scale models of Evinrude, Johnson and Honda boat
motors. Visit their website at http://www.alterscale.com/. Then
you may consider purchasing "Toy Outboard Motors" by
Jack Browning, $22.95, 150 pages of compiled articles (by Jack
Browning) with photos. Available only direct: Jack Browning; 214
16th Street; Roanoke, VA 24017 (ph: 540-982-1253). Comment: This
is the only comprehensive work in existence on this subject. It
covers principally the K&O motors (in detail) but touches on
many other toy outboards. It includes a list of toy outboard
collectors with names and addresses. Jack Browning is one of the
world's premier collectors of toy outboards.
AMERICAN HIGHWAY LEGENDS (AHL -
also see Hartoy)
Hartoy produces a series of 1:64 scale trucks of Forties and
Fifties vintage called American Highway Legends that have become
very popular with collectors. Models retail for $10 to $30 each,
and sometimes bring higher prices at toy shows and from specialty
dealers.
AURORA CIGAR BOX
Aurora is best known for HO gauge slot cars. Their Cigar Box
line of cars of the mid- to late-Sixties are models with plastic
bodies and diecast metal bases held on with two screws so that
the chassis could be easily removed and replaced with slot car
chassis and motor. Popularity of these little cars has increased
in just the last couple of years and are now valued around $20 to
$30 each.
BARCLAY
From 1924 to 1971, Barclay produced a large assortment of
toys from various headquarters in West Hoboken, Union City and
North Bergen, New Jersey, beginning with lead alloy models in the
Thirties and Forties and later changing to zamac (zinc alloy).
Most models are fairly common in appearance, but a few represent
sleek, streamlined "futuristic" styling that reflects
the Art Deco influence of the period.
BBURAGO
Although Bburago (usually spelled with two B's) is a recent
entry into the diecast miniature market, their dominance on the
US market has risen steadily. Producing precision scale models as
well as toys since 1974, Bburagos are one of the few diecast
collectibles still manufactured in Europe instead of Asia...
Milan, Italy, to be specific, and originally marketed as Martoys.
Bburago models mostly replicate Italian sports cars such as
Ferrari, Lamborghini, Alfa Romeo and Bugatti. But also
represented are Mercedes-Benz, Jaguar and even a couple of Dodge
Vipers, offered as dealer promotional models at Chrysler
dealerships. Many models are available both as pre-assembled
models and unassembled kits.
BEST
There are actually four toy manufacturers named Best,
all unrelated. One started in the 1930s in Kansas by John M.
Best, Sr., another in just the past decade in Pesaro, Italy, by
Marco Grassini. A third company called Best-Box is an obscure
brand of miniature vehicles made in Holland. There resemblance to
Efsi toys of Holland may not be coincidental. A fourth company is
based in Taiwan.
BEST TOYS OF KANSAS
It was in the midst of the hard economic times of the 1930s
that John M. Best, Sr., started Best Toy & Novelty Factory.
His main business as a printer who worked with metal alloys lent
itself to a sideline in lead alloy toys. The company started as a
family hobby and continued until 1939 when Best was purchased by
Ralstoy of Ralston, Kansas. In the meantime, Best maintained a
close association with the Kansas Toy Company in John Best's home
town of Clifton, Kansas, occasionally swapping dies. Many early
Best models are actually Ralstoy or Kansas Toy models. Unlike
recent reproductions, Best originals are distingushed by white
rubber wheels or embossing of the words "Made in USA."
Several models used the metal wheels common to Kansas Toy
originals, while others possessed wooden hubs with rubber tires.
The familiar oversized white tires made of soft rubber eventually
became a standard on Best models.3 The original line of Best toys
were an assortment of generic Sedans, Coupes and Racers typically
3- 1/2 to 4" long, along with an Oil Transport measuring
6-3/4".
BEST MODEL OF ITALY
New 1:43 scale precision models are currently being produced
from Pesaro, Italy, by Marco Grassini under the Best brand name.
They represent models of Porsches, Alfa Romeos, Jaguars and
Ferraris. While it would seem their product line is extensive, it
is actually based on issuing many variations of just a few
models. An interesting observation is that Bang, Best Model and
Art Model replicas are all 1:43 scale, all three brands are based
at 61100 Pesaro, Italy, Via Toscana, 85, and their catalogs are
similar, as well as their models. Box Model seems to have a
similar relationship.
BEST - BOX OF HOLLAND
Best - Box toys were unheard of until I visited Bond Street
Antiques in Bend, Oregon, where the owner had just acquired a
small assortment of Matchbox toys and Tootsietoys. In among the
assortment was a toy car marked "best - box, MADE IN
HOLLAND, Porsche 911 S, 2502." The small red car, measuring
just 2-3/8 inches long, was missing its doors, but the quality
and charm of this great little toy is still evident. I
purchased the model as is for $3. Since then, James
"Kojak" Hughs of Fayetteville, North Carolina, sent me
a second example, a generic delivery truck similar to a 1910 -
1920 Model T, marked only with the words BEST BOX HOLLAND on the
base.
BEST TOY CO., LTD.
No.9, Lane 410, Niu Pu Rd.,
Hsinchu, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Not much is known about this company. It is believed that it is
not in any way connected with any of the other companies and does
not produce any diecast toys.
BROOKFIELD
COLLECTORS GUILD
"Exquisite" is a word that best describes diecast
models produced by Brookfield Collectors Guild, Inc., 16312 West
Glendale Drive, New Berlin, Wisconsin 53151-9917. Brookfield
Collectors Guild, Inc., has existed since 1992. But it has only
recently begun a direct-marketing effort. Two Chrysler LH models
are available from Chrysler dealerships for $30.00 or less. At
this modest price, these models offer detail and accuracy
comparable to much more expensive models. Imprinted on a small
tag attached to the inside of each vehicle's trunk is the
following: "
Each of these 1993 Chrysler LH series cars have been crafted in
the traditional scale of 1:24. Issued as an official dealer promo
model by Chrysler Corp. commemorating the LH launch, each diecast
replica is hand assembled in China from over 60 individual
components." Back in 1980, even before Brookfield had a
name, company president Kenneth Dahlke established a reputation
for excellence when he produced lavish models of the 1908 Model T
for the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan. Around the same
time, his company released a replica of Louis Chevrolet's first
car for the company that bears his name. These two early models
were clad in silver plate and fitted with diamond headlights and
ruby taillights, and manufactured in very limited edition. Since
then, an assortment of diecast banks have been produced. The
first ones, Chevy Suburbans, had the coin slot in the top. Later
versions put the slot on the bottom so as not to ruin the
integrity of the model.
BROOKLINS
Brooklin, Lansdowne & Robeddie are all brands of Brooklin
Models Limited of Brooklin, Ontario, Canada. Started in 1974 by
John Hall in his basement, the company has since become the
world's leading manufacturer of handbuilt 1:43 scale collectible
model automobiles. Brooklins are now manufactured in a 10,000
square foot factory in Bath, England. While their replication of
Fifties and Sixties vintage US cars makes them popular with
collectors, Brooklins sometimes lack the fine detailing of
comparable models, opting instead for heavy, solid construction
and exacting scale. Some enthusiasts prefer to add chrome foil
for finish trim, applying thin metallic film in a fashion similar
to gold leaf. This preference leads back to the argument of the
purist versus the hobbyist, as mentioned in the introduction to
this book. While Brooklins focus on American (US) cars, Lansdowne
models are replicas of British cars. The series was introduced in
1993 to present a completely new line of models for collectors.
Robeddie models meanwhile concentrate on Swedish vehicles -
Volvos mostly, with a 1969 Saab 99 thrown in for variety.
BRUMM
Brumista was the name given towards the end of the 19th
Century to the hackney-coach drivers of Milan, those grandfathers
of today's taxi drivers... and it is from this word, el Brumm,
that the trademark BRUMM, miniature styling for collectors of
models scale 1:43, was derived. The Brumm Company of Oltrona S.
Mamette, (a small village near Como, Italy,) was the creation of
three friends who began their activities with the production of
models of period horse-drawn carriages, with and without horses
in the Brumm and Historical series. Then in 1976, they expanded
ranges to include steam-powered vehicles (Old Fire) and the first
motor cars in the now famous Revival series, of which the three
wheeler Morgan was the first. Today the company manufacturers
some two hundred fifty different models, all faithfully
reproduced in 1:43 scale. The car models produced by Brumm have
been mainly dedicated to those of a more historical nature, the
exception being one or two contemporary racing cars. From 1986
onwards, the company has also produced a yearly series of Limited
Edition models of 5000 pieces each, all now eagerly sought after.
Likewise, in 1987, production ceased on the first 10 models in
the Revival car series which immediately became coveted
collectiors items. Brumm will continue its policy of bringing to
the collectors releases of interesting and well made models, all
of which may take pride and place in any collection the world
over.
Website: http://www.cdsystems.it/brumm
E-mail: brumm@mbox.vol.it.
BUCCANEER
Buccaneer models appeared in the Seventies as
"pirated" copies of early Dinky models, hence the name
Buccaneer, another name for pirate.
C. A. W. NOVELTY
COMPANY
C.A.W. Novelty Company was started in 1925 in Kansas by Charles
A. Wood. His fine examples of "slushmold" (lead alloy)
toys were not fully appreciated by collectors till as late as
1990 when one collector named Chic Gast described a group of
unidentified toys as "orphans" in a published magazine
article. The toys were also marketed by the name of Mid-West
Metal Novelty Manufacturing Company in 1929. World War II brought
lead casting to a halt in 1940 and C.A.W. went with it. The last
employee of the company, Rod Hemphill, and newfound partner
Howard Clevenger purchased the company assets and started C&H
Manufacturing Company. C.A.W. toys originally sold for 10 cents
to a dollar.
CKO
The trademark logo on the bottom of CKO models is all that
identifies these models. The C forms an arc around the K, and the
O encircles both. Models are made in Germany and are quite rare
for their vintage, being produced sometime between the
mid-Sixties and mid-Seventies. Schroeder's Collectible Toys
Antique to Modern lists just three models, a red Ferrari Formula
1 currently valued at $125.00, a cream colored Mercedes-Benz Taxi
worth $125.00, and a blue Volkswagen Pickup currently worth
$145.00. At a recent toy show, Chris Quimby of Vancouver,
Washington, offered one more specimen, a yellow Volkswagen
Beetle, #425, for $45.00.
CORGI
The Corgi legacy is a rich one, beginning in 1934 with parent
company Mettoy of Swansea, South Wales. In 1956 Mettoy merged
with Playcraft Ltd. to form Mettoy Playcraft Ltd. In 1993, Mattel
bought the Corgi brand and is maintaining the tradition of
producing memorable toys, with the emphasis on collectability.
Several books have been written about Corgis, and the multitude
of models produced certainly could fill a book or more. Latest
information is that Mattel owns the Corgi Jrs. line, but the
larger Corgi Classics reportedly have been repurchased by
employees of the British firm.
DINKY
Dinky Toys started out in 1933 as
Modelled Miniatures, produced and marketed under the Frank Hornby
name, the original manufacturer. Hornby also produced electric
trains, and the first models produced were intended as
accessories to these train sets. Simultaneously in Liverpool,
England, and Bobigny, France, the British and French Dinky Toys
were put into production in 1934. French-made Dinky Toys,
particularly the post-war models, are more highly valued in the
U.S., and perhaps Europe, because the French models focused on
American cars of the era, and serve as accurate models of the
era.
The advent of Hot Wheels by Mattel in 1968 posed a major threat to companies such as Dinky Toys, contributing to the close of the French facility in 1972, although Pilen of Spain continued to produce some French Dinky models later in the Seventies, while Solido of France attempted a similar feat in 1981.
The British firm, meanwhile, attempted to stay in business by farming out production of some models to Polistil of Italy and to Universal of Hong Kong. Universal eventually purchased the rights, and incorporated the brand into the Matchbox line, which Universal had purchased in 1982.
Several other firms staked a claim on
the Dinky brand from time to time, including Tri-Ang of England
in 1963, Mercury of Italy, Mercury Industries based in the US and
Canada, Gibbs of Ohio, Best Box/Efsi of the Netherlands, and most
notably Meccano of England.
DUGU
One of the premier miniature model companies of Italy was
known as Dugu, a company that produced some beautiful models in
1:43 to 1:50 scale. the company started in 1963 by marketing
Miniautotoys and Museo models. They represented real cars from
the automotive Museum of Torino, Italy. Miniautotoys are
high-quality 1:43 scale models similar to Rio, while Museo models
are 1:50 scale simplified, less expensive models. A third series
called Sispla was also produced in 1974.
EDIL
Edil Toys of Italy are detailed 1:43 scale models produced
from 1965 to 1970. Models reproduced afterwards in Turkey by
Meboto still hold the Edil brand name but are comparably inferior
castings with crude finishes that give them away as later models.
Original models are valued between $45.00 and $75.00.
EDOCAR (also see Zee Toys / Zylmex)
Edocars is believed to be a Netherlands-based company. As
with many toy companies, Edocar was at one time or another
connected with other toy companies. Intex Recreation and Zyll
Enterprises are two companies that provided U.S. marketing and
packaging for selected Edocar toys, at least for a brief time. On
its own, Edocar remains obscure in the vast toy market. Most
likely, Edocar markets others toys as their own, much like Model
Power repackages Playart and Eidai models and Megatoys remarkets
Maistos. A set of Coca-Cola race cars from Edocar were definitely
castings from Action/Racing Collectibles, according to David
Weber of Warrington, Pennsylvania. He indicates that these were
unauthorized alterations of the latter suspected to be illegally
obtained from the Action/Racing Collectibles factory in China.
EFSI
Efsi toys are well-made 1:64 scale toys from Holland. They
are durable, authentic replicas representing mostly European
vehicles that sell for about$4.00 each. Each of the dozen or so
EFSI models manufactured is available in many different
variations and liveries.
EIDAI
Made in Japan, these scale models are occasionally sold under
the Model Power brand. The Grip Zechin brand is a line of
toys also produced by Eidai and listed in their own section.
ENCHANTMENT
LAND COACH BUILDERS
Specializing in 1:43 scale limousines and hearses, these
custom handbuilt cars are created both on and off major
manufacturers' chassies. Retail prices start at $99 and go up to
$139.
ERTL
Fred J. Ertl Sr. started The Ertl Company in 1945 from his
Dubuque, Iowa, home. He applied the diecasting
techniques he had learned in his homeland Germany to manufacture
licensed farm toys from John Deere and International Harvester's
original blueprints. Soon after, he moved operations
to Dyersville, Iowa, where the company remains today.
From diecast farm toys, Ertl has expanded to the
manufacture of pressed steel and diecast toy trucks, diecast
scale model cars, and an assortment of other toys.
Their large assortment of diecast vehicle banks has
been extremely popular for decades. Ertl's immense
product line represents thousands of models, all designed after
real vehicles. As you might guess, an entire book is
needed to present the broad range of models produced.
Ertl collectors are an elite group, many of whom only collect
special issue limited edition models. Others
specialize in just Ertl tractors or Ertl banks. Several
collectors clubs exist for Ertl models.
While the official Ertl Collectors Club
no longer exists, Ertl still published The Replica newsletter.
The Replica is a full-color publication featuring product
previews from our farm toy and collectibles lines. It is a
bi-monthly magazine that also includes subscriber exclusives,
feature articles related to the industry, as well as a classified
ad/show listing section. Circulation is around 30,000 worldwide
and current subscription rates are: U.S. - $12.00 for 1 year (6
issues); Outside the U.S. - $16.00 for 1 year (6 issues). The
address for subscriptions is Ertl A/R Replica Subscriptions, P.O.
Box 500, Dyersville, IA 52040. Also of note, The Ertl Company is
now owned by USI in New Jersey.
Other brands such as Scale Models, Spec-Cast, Liberty Classics,
First Gear and a few others have sprung up in Iowa, inspired by
Ertl's success. Spec-Cast and Scale Models, in fact, are direct
offsprings of the Ertl Company. While Ertls were originally made
in Iowa, most are now manufactured in China, Korea or other Asian
manufacturing centers. Scale Models continue to be made in the
USA.
GOLDVARG
Argentina is home to the Goldvarg brand of high quality white
metal models. Typical models start at $80 each.
GRIP ZECHIN
Grip Zechin is a hard-to-find brand of unusual toys made in
Japan by Eidai. Only a few examples have been found and
documented for this book. One is a Yamaha motorcycle and
sidecar from Chris Quimby, Vancouver, Washington. Another
is a DeTomaso Pantera also listed under the Eidai brand, which
has been associated with Grip models. More recently, Jeff
Kopis of Clallam Bay, Washington, reports a few more models found
in 1977 in a Seattle, Washington, Bon Marche department store,
where he recalls that the store had a complete line of Grip
Zechin models. Unfortunately, he only purchased three at
the time, all Caterpillar models. Nevertheless, his
additional information is invaluable.
HARTOY
Hartoy is an American promotional company that, besides
producing its own American Highway Legends series of 1:64 scale
trucks in various liveries, takes basic models from Lledo and
others and, through a licensing agreement with numerous
companies, customizes them with advertising and logos. A series
of Coca-Cola vehicles and Chevron gas station promotionals are
some of the better-known models from Hartoy. American Highway
Legends is now the most prominent series from Hartoy, and is
dealt with in its own section. (See American Highway Legends.)
Lledo toys marketed by Hartoy are likewise listed with the rest
of the Lledo models. (See Lledo.)
Website: www.hartoy.com
HOT WHEELS
So much has been written about Hot Wheels that anything added
here would seem redundant. Tomart's Price Guide to Hot Wheels by
Michael Thomas Strauss, and Bob Parker's Complete and
Unauthorized Book of Hot Wheels, are two excellent reference
sources for the exploration of Hot Wheels variations and values.
Suffice it to say that since 1968, no other diecast toy has
stimulated such competitiveness, controversy, aggravation and
irritation amongst collectors. Just read the newsgroups at rec.toys.cars to get an idea of how evident this is. Or visit
their website: http://www.hotwheels.com.
IMPERIAL DIECAST
Imperial Toy Corporation has its US headquarters in Los
Angeles, California. Other international headquarters include
Imperial Toy Canada Ltd, in Missisauga, Ontario, and its Great
Britain distributor Titan Toys International Ltd. The distinction
of these models may lie mostly in their colorful packages and
regal logo. The actual models are made better than most generics,
and sell for comparably more. Featured are pull-back action
motorcycles with tiny "training wheels" to propel them,
nicely made commercial jets, a series of helicopters that are
also equipped with pull-back action, and various other somewhat
attractive toys. While these models possess more charm than most
generic toys, as with most generic diecast toys, value will
likely remain a retail price of $1.00 to $2.50 each, partly due
to the fact that the name is only on the package but not on the
toy.
IMPY (also see Lone Star)
A British company called Lone Star produced a series of toys
known as Impy toys. But the actual name on the base is "Lone
Star Road-Master Impy Super Cars." No wonder everyone called
them Impy. For more on Impy models, see Lone Star.
IRWIN
Beginning with celluloid baby rattles and pinwheels, Irwin
Cohn started the Irwin company in 1922. Toy cars and trucks
produced by Irwin were made of an assortment of materials. In
1973, Irwin was purchased by Miner Industries. New models are
sold under the Joal brand by Irwin.
JANE FRANCIS TOYS
Jane Francis started making toys in 1942, during World War
II. Her first toys were stuffed handmade Gingham Dogs, Calico
Cats and Jumbo The Elephant toys for a Pittsburgh hospital gift
shop. When Gimbel's department store requested 12 dozen stuffed
toys, Jane Francis Toys were born. Her husband joined the
operation towards the end of the war to introduce a line of
diecast cars and trucks, among other items. In 1945, their first
models reached the market. By 1949, the last diecast toys were
produced, But the Francis' daughter Jane Francis Vanyo continued
her father's business, the A. W. Francis Company, in producing
diecast lawn and garden accessories. As of 1993, the company was
still in operation from its headquarters in Somerset,
Pennsylvania.
JOAL
Juguetes Joal S.A. was originally based in Spain. But
recently, Irwin Toy Limited of Toronto, Canada, purchased the
rights to distribute Joal toys in North America. Models are
typically 1:43 scale. Joal models are currently manufactured in
Macau and marketed by Irwin. A recent release of a six car series
called the Joal Classics Collection harkens back to the Sixties
when companies such as Matchbox, Corgi and Dinky flourished.
Their models then were detailed, accurate and realistic, usually
with opening doors, hoods and trunks. These new models possess an
ephemeral charm that is not often reproduced these days. But this
collection succeeds in mimicking that appealing style. Besides
the Sixties retromodels, Joal specializes in construction models
of approximately 1:55 scale.
JOHNNY LIGHTNINGS
Johnny Lightnings were originally produced by Topper Toys,
owned by Henry Orenstein, from 1969 to 1971. But charges of
business fraud forced Orenstein out of business. 23 years later,
Thomas E. Lowe, a businessman who remembers as a kid the toy cars
that beat Hot Wheels on their own track, purchased the Johnny
Lightnings license to reproduce several of the original designs
in a commemorative series under the new company name of Playing
Mantis. The series has proven itself so popular with collectors
that ten color variations, limited to 10,000 each, have been
issued during 1994, and indicated as series A through J. For
1995, Playing Mantis has made a major departure from its original
direction by creating all-new models called Muscle Machines,
relying on the popularity of the brand name and the passion for
American muscle cars. Each model/color variation is produced in
limited quantities of approximately 20,000.
Website: http://www.johnnylightning.com.
JOUEF
The head office for Jouef is in Champagnole, France, with US
distribution based in Mequon, Wisconsin. Plastic models were the
predominant Jouef product, but recently the company has produced
an exceptional assortment of diecast models in 1:18, 1:24 and
1:43 scale. Dubbed Jouef Evolution, named after their flagship
model Ferrari, the models represented are high-quality replicas
for a reasonable price. After suffering bankruptcy, Jouef has
been purchased by Universal Hobbies and are now sold under the
Eagle's Race brand.
KINGSBURY
The Kingsbury company dates back to 1886 in Keene, New
Hampshire. Around 1910, Harry Kingsbury purchased the Wilkins
Toys Company. After World War I, He changed the Wilkins brand
name to Kingsbury to produce toys made usually of pressed steel
with windup motors. While the firm remains in business, toy
production apparently ceased after 1942. Values range from
$400.00 to $2500.00.
KYOSHO
These fine quality scale models from Japan are part of a line
of toys that also include radio-controlled cars, boats and
planes, and detailed plastic model kits.Website: http://www.kyosho.com.
LANSING
SLIK-TOYS
Lansing, Iowa, is the home of Lansing Slik-Toys, mostly
one-piece cast aluminum toys, with a few plastic models.
LIBERTY CLASSICS (also see Spec-Cast)
Liberty Classics are made in Libertyville, Illinois, and
distributed by Spec-Cast of Iowa. Values depends greatly on
quantity produced.
LINCOLN WHITE
METAL WORKS
Three toy companies are known by the name
"Lincoln." One, known as Lincoln Toys of
Windsor, Ontario, Canada, produced several pressed steel toys,
valued from $100.00 to $600.00 by collectors. Another, Lincoln
White Metal Works of Lincoln, Nebraska, has produced models
that more appropriately fit the definition of
"diecast." From 1931 to 1940, Lincoln White Metal
Works sold toys to Woolworth, Kress, Kresge, Schwartz Paper Co.
and many other markets. Identifying these models becomes
difficult since not all of them are specifically marked. The
third, Lincoln Toys, Ltd., is based in Australia, and is
known for some notable diecast toys.
LLEDO
When Lesney sold the Matchbox line of diecast toys to
Universal Holding Company of Hong Kong in 1982, John W.
"Jack" Odell left the firm, of which he was a partner
for many years, to form Lledo (Odell spelled backwards).
Lledo models are also known as Days Gone and designated
"DG". Every one of the hundreds of Lledo models
produced for the first 6 years are variations of approximately 30
base models. Color and markings are what differentiate each
model. The value of each model depends on the number
of each variation produced from year to year. Most regular
production models sell for $8.00 to $10.00
each. Limited edition models vary considerably,
depending on availability and quantity produced. Dr.
Force's new book entitled Lledo Toys (Schiffer Publishing,
1996) serves as an excellent source for variations and values.
Website: www.lledo.com.
MAISTO
Maisto International, Inc., based in Fontana, California, is
the US division of Master Toy Co. Ltd. of Thailand, with May
Cheong Toy Products Factory Ltd. of Kowloon as the Hong Kong
subsidiary. The company also encompasses May Tat, the budget toy
division. Previously marketed in the US under the brand name of M
C Toys (sometimes jokingly said to stand for "Matchbox
Copy"), Maisto has become a dominant force in the precision
scale model market as well as the diecast toy industry.
Website: www.maisto.com.
Previously, their smallest toys, comparable to Matchbox toys and
Hot Wheels in size and price, were called M C Toys Mini Racers.
Since unifying the product line to the Maisto brand in 1994,
these approximately 1:64 scale toys have been renamed Maisto
Turbo Treads, and have been produced with new color variations
and packaging. Meanwhile, Maisto has made a huge impact in the
larger scale model industry, starting with their Trophy series
models of approximately 1:43 scale that sell for $4 or less, and
crowning the product line with 1:12 scale diecast masterpieces
that retail for over $100.00 each. Every Maisto model shows
exquisite attention to detail that establishes the company as a
strong competitor to the big name brands. In fact, Maisto has
become one of the big name brands. As is the case with many
brands, M C Toys, Intex Recreation and Zee Toys were, at one time
or another, all related in one way or another. The intermixing of
models and castings blurred the lines that demarcated one
company's product from the others'.
MAJORETTE
Background and History: One of the world's most popular, or
at least most proliferous, diecast toy cars and trucks comes from
the French company known simply as Majorette F. The company
started producing diecast toy cars and trucks in 1961. During the
early years, availability of Majorettes was very limited. Models
often showed up as promotional models for various retailers. In
1982, Majorettes became more readily available to the US with the
establishment of Majorette USA, with headquarters in Miami,
Florida. It was not the best of times for introducing a new
diecast toy line to the US, as the 1980's saw the downfall,
merger or sellout of many popular toy companies such as Matchbox,
Corgi, Dinky and Solido. Nevertheless, Majorette created a niche
in the US Market that remains today perhaps as strong as ver,
despite bankruptcy, receivership and eventual sale of the
company.
Solido of France, meanwhile, was almost one of the casualties of
the era. This venerable brand of toys had existed independently
since 1930. But as with other toy companies, Solido suffered
financially too, eventually being purchased by Majorette in 1980.
Fortunately the Solido line survives, as does Majorette.
In 1990, bankrupt Majorette was purchased by Ideal Loisirs,
(pronounced ee-dee-ALL LEE-zhurs,) a French toy conglomerate. In
turn, Playmates toy company of Hong Kong purchased a 37.5 percent
interest in Ideal Loisirs in mid-1992. Playmates made its mark in
the toy industry with its popular licensed line of Teenage Mutant
Ninja Turtles action figures. Since then, the company has been
held together by the powerful force and extraordinary popularity
of its Star Trek, Next Generation and Deep Space Nine action
figures, models and playsets.
About the same time, a Portuguese brand of small, accurate-scale,
mostly plastic toy vehicles called Novacars was assimilated into
the Majorette line, becoming the new Majorette Novacars 100
Series. A listing of these models can be found separately under
the Novacar listing.
The latest change in the business occurred when TA Triumph-Adler
of Nüremburg, Germany, took a controlling share in the Ideal
Loisirs Group. Triumph-Adler Toy Division is known for the Zapf
brand of dolls, Tronico radio-controlled cars, Cartronic car
racing tracks, Europlay summer toys and Kidtech children's
computers.
The result of this merger/buyout is that Majorettes now belongs
to one of the largest toy conglomerates in Europe, and one of the
leading toy manufacturers in the world.
The Majorette Line-Up: The backbone of the Majorette line of toys is the 200 Series, models approximately 3 inches long and mimicking the Matchbox 1-75 series. In many ways, as you will see, Majorette has taken a marketing approach very similar to Matchbox.
Like Matchbox's Two-Packs, Majorette's 300 Series offers vehicle and trailer in a single package, occasionally throwing in a second trailer and calling it a "bonus pack." And like Matchbox's Convoy/Super Rigs series, Majorette's 600 Series replicates semi tractors and trailers in 1:87 scale. Many sub-series, such as Road Eaters, Smelly Speeders and Sonic Flashers are created from regular series models. Other Majorette series feature models on a larger scale that offer a wide assortment of vehicles and sets.
While Solido is now a subsidiary of Majorette, they remain distinctive in their own right, and are detailed in the section of this book devoted to Solido toys.
The Original Majorette 100 Series: Originally the 100 Series was to be the primary series of 1/55th to 1/100th scale models, eventually being discontinued in favor of the current 200 Series. Now several of these older models have been reintroduced into the 200 Series as new models. The new 100 Series now encompasses Novacars, highly accurate renditions with plastic bodies and metal chassis, except for the F1 Racers, which have metal bodies and plastic chassis.
MATCHBOX
Since 1947, Lesney and Matchbox toys have been the most
universally popular diecast toys since Tootsietoys. The complete
story of Matchbox toys can be found in Dana Johnson's book
entitled Matchbox Toys 1947 to 1996 from Collector Books ($18.95
retail).
MICRO MODELS
Micro Models was begun in
Australia. Through several incarnations, the company is now based
in New Zealand.
NOVACARS
Originally produced by the Portuguese company Minia Portos
Juguetes E Brinquedos Lda., Novacar became a division of
Majorette of France in 1993. Novacar is a series of small-scale
toy vehicles with plastic bodies and metal chassis, except for
number 112 F1 Racer, which has a diecast metal body and plastic
chassis. All models are currently available as the new Majorette
100 Series and retail for $.50 to $.75 each.
NZG
Nurnberger Zinzdruckgussmodelle,
otherwise known as NZG, began in Nurnburg, Germany, in 1968, by
producing an assortment of construction vehicles. The company
stuck with the heavy equipment theme till 1984, when a series of
1:43 scale Porsches and 1:35 scale Mercedes-Benz models were
introduced, along with a few trucks and buses. A large assortment
of current models is available from Toys for Collectors and other
fine toy and model dealers. According to an undated but recent
NZG catalog, NZG was for some time distributed by Schuco Toy Co.,
Inc., New York, likely a division of Schuco of Germany. Latest
information indicates NZG is still in business, with new models
currently being produced.
OLDCARS
Oldcars brand of Italy is so named for its first models of
antique cars introduced in 1978. Their current line represents
anything but old cars, consisting of modern buses, racing
transporters, vans, fire trucks and heavy equipment. Still the
name remains, and the company keeps producing so many variations
of its basic models that not even the owner of the company could
list them all.
PENJOY
Penjoy is one of only two manufacturers of die cast
collectibles made in the U.S.A. (The other is Winross.) In
addition, there is also a Penjoy Collectors Club which offers a
quarterly newsletter. Check the club listings at the toynutz clubs page or visit
their website at www.penjoy.com.
PenJoy Company, 56 Newcomer Road, Mount Joy PA 17552-9344 USA,
Phone: (717)653-7330, Fax: (717)653-2662, E-mail: penjoywm@webcom.com
POLITOYS/POLISTIL
Politoys M of Italy began in 1960 as a manufacturer of
plastic 1:41 scale models. In 1965, Politoys produced their first
series of higher-quality diecast vehicles. Because of the
similarity of names between Politoys of Italy and Palitoys of
Great Britain, the Politoys name was changed to Polistil around
1970. The Politoys/Polistil product line covers hundreds of
models in a variety of scales, from 1:18 scale to 1:64. Since
other books devote many pages to this brand, this book showcases
just a few representative models.
QUIRALU
Now one of the most popular brands on the collector market,
Quiralu was at one time a totally obscure French brand of diecast
toys. Their current popularity is due in part to the re-issue of
many of the original models as faithful reproductions. That alone
wouldn't necessarily make them sell, but the real reason is for
the recognition by collectors of the charm and quality of these
fine toys. Reproductions can be purchased for a very reasonable
price, while original models are quickly rising in value. The
original Quiralu brand was introduced in 1933 by a Mr. Quirin of
Luxeuil, France. The combination of his name and the primary
metal, aluminum, used in the production of these models provides
the name derivation. It wasn't till 1955 that the firm started
producing 1:43 scale models. The latest of the original models
were introduced in 1959, with production ceasing soon afterward.
RACING CHAMPIONS
Racing Champions are based in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. In recent
years, the company has gained tremendous popularity not just
because of their miniature racing models, but perhaps moreso
because of their Mint Editions and related series of vintage
models.
Website: www.racingchamps.com.
RALSTOY
The Ralston Toy and Novelty Company, or Ralstoy, was founded
in Ralston, Nebraska, in 1939. Combining surviving molds and dies
from Best Toy Co. of Manhattan, Kansas, and Kansas Toy Co. of
Clifton, Kansas, the former Mayor of Ralston, Dr. Felix
Despecher, started producing inexpensive slush-mold toys. When
Dr. Despecher died and World War II dominated the need for lead
and other metals, successor Paul Massey turned to making wooden
toys. When the war was over, the first Ralstoy diecast models
were produced. Some, but not all, Ralstoys have the Ralstoy name
on them, due to the inheritance of dies from the other companies.
Current models are being produced as promotional items for moving
companies and others.
ROAD CHAMPS
As early as 1980, Road Champs produced various 1:64 scale toy
cars with opening doors under the auspices of JRI, Inc.,
originally based in a suburb of Philadelphia. One of many new
arrivals on the diecast market, Road Champs moved to Harrison,
New Jersey before finally settling in West Caldwell, New Jersey.
Their recent move to new offices are now established in Union,
New Jersey, coincides at least somewhat with the purchase of Road
Champs by Jakks Pacific, Inc., in 1998.
Road Champs made its mark in 1993 with its introduction of a
9-car series of 1993 Chevrolet Caprice State Police Cars. The
ever-expanding series features relatively faithful 1:43 scale
reproductions of U.S. and Canadian police cruisers with more
Caprice variations, the addition of 1994 Ford Crown Victoria, a
1996 Chevrolet Suburban, and a 1998 Ford Crown Victoria multiply
the number of police cars added every year. Before the highly
popular state police series, the 1:87 scale "Anteaters"
series, named after those curved-nose semi tractors, was the
primary item marketed by Road Champs. They remain a popular
segment of the Road Champs line-up, now marketed simply as Die
Cast Cabs & Trailers.
1:64 scale offerings include Country Tour Buses, a now
discontinued series that featured graphics and names of several
country music stars; their Fire Rescue Series is still a popular
line of models of firefighting equipment, including International
and Boardman trucks, and most recently Chevrolet Suburbans; the
Deluxe series continues to offer the unusual items such as a
Zamboni, International Ramp Wreck Truck, garbage and recycling
trucks, an International school bus and Mercedes stretch
limousines. 1:87 scale buses are another currently popular but
hard to find assortment that includes a classic Greyhound bus and
several liveries of city and municipal buses.
The popularity of Road Champs has grown with the expanding
police car series, and Road Champs caters to collectors by now
producing a great assortment of vintage automobiles in 1:43
scale. For more information, you may contact the company: Road
Champs, Inc. 1600 Route 22 East 3rd Floor Union NJ 07083
908-206-0666 Lee Vitulano, Vice President & General Manager
Sales Department Fax 908-206-0174
E-mail addresses:
Customer Service: custserv@roadchampsinc.com
Sales: sales@roadchampsinc.com
Premiums: premiums@roadchampsinc.com
Webmaster: webmaster@roadchampsinc.com
Website: http://www.roadchampsinc.com/Home.html
SAFIR
From 1961 to 1978, Safir of France produced a wide variety of
miniature models. Though not very successful, many of their
models were copied by Hong Kong firms known for producing cheap
unlicensed knock-offs of other manufacturers' products. Safir
models are typically valued at $10.00 to $25.00 each.
SIKU TOYS
Siku is a division of Sieperwerke, a venerable German company
established in 1921 by Richard Sieper. The name "Siku"
is an acronym formed from the first two letters of the Sieper
name combined with the first two letters of
"kunststoff," the German word describing synthetic
material or plastic. From 1949 to 1963, Siku toys were made of
plastic, but in 1963, as Matchbox started marketing their
products in Germany, the first Siku diecast models were produced
to attempt to keep up with the increasing competition. Models
marketed in the US were at one time labelled "Siku
Eurobuilt" but are now packaged as "Siku Super
Series" models. While the predominant scale for Siku is
1:55, Siku actually manufactures in three different scales, 1:64,
1:55 "Super Series" and 1:32 "Farmer Series".
The exclusive US distributor for Siku toys is Ludico Toys
Inc., 130 Business Park Drive, Armonk, NY 10405, Phone:
914/273-2553, Fax: 914/273-4402
E-mail: ludico@bestweb.net.
SOLIDO
The venerable Solido firm of Nanterre, France, was formed in
1932 by Ferdinand de Vazeilles. While this book presents a survey
of the wide range of high-quality models produced by Solido, a
more detailed study is presented by Dr. Edward Force, renowned
author and collector of a wide variety of diecast toys,. In 1980,
Majorette purchased the Solido company, and continues the
tradition of producing quality miniature replica vehicles. The
brand survives today under the auspices of Groupe Ideal Loisirs,
the French toy conglomerate.
SUPERIOR
Superior is a brand from China that produces some notably
nice diecast models, however unidentifiable they may be due to
lack of distinguishing marks other than the "Flying S"
logo on the base.
TBILISI
Collector Lemiere Bruno of France reports that "Tbilisi
is the name of the Russian town (=Tiflis, Georgia or Azerbaijan?)
where a small toy factory installed obsolete Norev casting
equipment around 1980. In the USSR, no brand names were applied
apart from those intended for export, hence the town name. Poor
finish for the domestic market as far as I remember. A couple of
other Norevs were remanufactured there." The 1927 Panhard
offered as an example is reportedly made of hard plastic with
removable bonnet and measuring about 3-1/2 inches long, making it
roughly 1:50-1:55 scale. It sold on E-bay for $7.95 + shipping
and handling in early October 1998.
TOMICA
Until around 1980, the Japanese gems known as Tomica Pocket
Cars were widely distributed in the US, even available in grocery
stores. But because their high quality and accurate scale meant
that they cost a little more than Hot Wheels and Matchbox, they
were unable to compete with the lower-priced and better-known
brands. The normal price for Pocket Cars was around $1.50 to
$1.75 each. Their current value reflects the growing interest
from collectors who discovered these terrific little toys too
late to save them from disappearing from the US market. Another
reason for a lack of popularity is their focus on Japanese
vehicles such as Mazda, Hino, Mitsubishi and Fuso. Now, models of
Japanese vehicles are more desirable because they are Japanese.
New models are still being produced but are not generally
available in the US, as the Tomica series retreated to European
and Asian markets where Pocket Cars still hold a better market
share.
Image:
Tomica Honda Civic
Tomica Pocket Cars: The
numbering system for Pocket Cars is not particularly consistent,
so the preferred method of listing them is alphabetically by
description. Most models are well-marked on the base, and are
heavier than usual for their size, due to more metal and less
plastic. Other companies, in an attempt to capture some of the
Pocket Car market, produced cheap copies of many of these models.
A major difference is that these generic knock-offs had plastic
bases and other components, and lighter-weight metal parts, and
are generally unmarked. The generic versions are considered
essentially worthless to collectors, except as an oddity. The new
premier source for current and older Tomicas is Bob Blum, 8 Leto
Road, Albany NY 12203, phone 518-456-0608.
Tomica Dandy: These are 1:43 scale models whose detail,
packaging and accessories set them apart from most other models
in their price range.
TOOTSIETOYS
The process of diecasting was first introduced to the world
at the Columbian Exposition of 1893, when Charles Dowst observed
a new machine known as the Line-O-Type. Mr. Dowst applied the
process to the manufacture of various items, eventually producing
the first diecast toys in 1910. These first diecast toys soon
after became known as Tootsie Toys. (Later the name was changed
to Tootsietoys.) The Tootsietoy legacy can be divided into two
eras - pre-war and post-war. The reason for this is that before
World War II, Dowst concentrated on producing realistic replicas
of popular vehicles of the era. The focus after the war shifted
to producing less expensive toys that were more affordable and
therefore more accessible to children. Serious collectors prefer
pre-war Tootsietoys because of their greater detail and realism.
Today's assortment of Tootsietoys runs the full gamut of styles,
from crude generic toys to accurate miniature models, but the
focus is still on affordability. While this book presents a
survey of models, a more detailed study can be found in David
Richter's Collector's Guide to Tootsietoys, $16.95 from Collector
Books. In 1964, with the purchase of the Strombecker Corporation,
one of the oldest companies in the US, Dowst's Tootsietoys became
Strombecker's Tootsietoys.
UNIVERSAL HOBBIES LTD.,
INC. (also see Jouef, Eagle's Race)
Until recently, the head office for Jouef was in Champagnole,
France, with US distribution based in Mequon, Wisconsin. Since
Jouef's bankruptcy in 1996, models are now being produced by
Universal Hobbies Ltd., Inc. under the Jouef and Eagle's Race
brands. The primary source for Jouef and Eagle's Race models is
Auto Imagination Inc., 6841 N. Rochester Rd., Suite 200,
Rochester Hills MI 48306 USA.
U.S.
MODEL MINT
U.S. Model Mint models are white metal
scale models in 1:43 scale similar to Brooklins, Durham and
others. They are distinguished by their beautiful representations
of U.S. manufactured cars. While the U.S. headquarters are in
Granger, Indiana, U.S. Model Mint cars are made by SMTS of
England.
VITESSE
Vitesse is a popular brand of
beautifully exquisite 1:43 scale models from Portugal. Toys for
Collectors devotes a page of its catalog to showcasing thes great
models. Victoria models are military models produced by Vitesse.
See Victoria listing for more information. Other specialty
offerings from Vitesse include the Trofeu series of Rally Cars,
and Onyx, an assortment of race cars, mostly Formula Ones. See
Onyx models under their own heading.
VIVID IMAGINATIONS
Out of Canada comes Vivid Imaginations, for a while a
division of Tyco but now owned by Mattel. The Vivid Imaginations
brand was the impetus for a small offering of Gerry Anderson
vehicles. You may recall Gerry Anderson as the creator of
"Supermarionation," the process used to place
marionettes in action scenes for children's TV series such
as Thunderbirds, Supercar, Captain Scarlet and the Mysterons, and
several others. The Vivid Imaginations brand was applied to
diecast models from the Thunderbirds TV show most popular in
England and Canada.
WELLY
Though marketed as generic low-cost
toys, Welly remains one of the more viable producers of quality
1:64 scale toys and toy sets. While incorporating less metal and
more plastic in their design than most, Welly toys still display
the kind of charm and durability that are the marks of a quality
collectible toy.
Website: http://www.wellydiecast.com.hk
WINROSS
Since the 1960s, Winross of Palmyra and Rochester, New York,
has offered quality 1:64 scale toy trucks manufactured
exclusively in the U.S. Their literature states that their
purpose is "to provide the private collector with the finest
scale models hand-crafted in the USA today, at factory direct
prices." Each model featured in the Collector Series
has been used in a unique promotion by the company it represents,
and has been approved for private sale through their catalog.
Winross by Mail is the catalog division of the Winross Company,
Inc. These models are not available for retail nor intended for
resale. Purchase is limited to six of any one model unless
otherwise specified. For collectors of Winross trucks, the
Winross Collectors Club of America, Inc., publishes The Winross
Model Collector, a monthly newsletter intended to "share and
preserve the common interest of dedication to the collection and
preservation of 1:64th scale Winross Trucks." New
variations are issued monthly, about six at a time.
Website: http://www.winross.com/
YAT MING
Like Welly, Yat Ming has produced a large number of
inexpensive toys, now marketed as Road Tough brand toys. But a
recent development by Yat Ming has resulted in their popular Road
Legends line of 1:18 and 1:43 scale diecast models.
Website: http://www.yatming.com
