Minatures News

The miniatures got off to a promising start in 1964. Lesney, now producing almost 1 1/2-million “Matchbox” models every week, an annual production of over 80-million units, announce more than 40 fresh “miniatures” for this year, although to counter wage increases there will be a slight increase in prices. Already Lesney have introduced a Rolls-Royce Phantom V to a scale of 74:1 (New “Matchbox” series No. 44), with opening boot, windows, seats, steering wheel, and, of course, sprung wheels. This miniature is 2 1/8-in. long and has a super finish as befits the self-styled Best Car in the World. It retails for 1s. 11d. Another new Lesney is a 74:1-scale Jeep Gladiator pick-up truck (New “Matchbox” No. 71), with doors that open. It is 2 7/8-in. in length and also sells for 1s. 11d.

Other new Lesney’s to be expected in the near future include a 72:1 scale Jaguar Mk. X with opening bonnet to show the twin-cam engine (but why on earth can’t it be to the same scale as the aforesaid Rolls-Royce ?), a Guy Warrior 4-car transporter, 8-wheel tipper trucks in both “Matchbox” and “Matchbox King Size,” a King Size Jumbo crane and a “Models of Yesteryear” 1912 Packard landaulette to sell for 5s., said to be the most beautiful and detailed model in this excellent series. Trade inquiries should be addressed to Lesney Products & Co. Ltd., Eastway, Hackney Wick, London, E.9.

Corgi greeted the New Year with two very pleasing new miniatures. a HIlman Imp (No. 251 measuring 3 1/4 in. in length, which incorporates the opening back window and folding rear seats of the real Imp, the seats folding by the action of tiny cams attached to their backs and located in the wheel arches, gentle pressure on the suspension system combined with a slight fore-and-aft movement raising or lowering the seat squabs. All the usual Corgi Toy features are included, even to an openable suitcase: In bright royal blue paintwork, this miniature costs 4s. 6d. Another new Corgi is a replica of the N.S.U. Sport Prinz (No. 316), longer by 3 mm, than the Imp, and costing 3s. 9d.

The Brighton Toy Fair, where such models will be on show to the World’s toy buyers, is open from February 9-13th, mainly at the Grand Hotel. – W. B.