Mechanical tin toys as in older daysThis toy testifies to the rebirth of an old tradition, which in the decades before and after 1900 brought great pleasure, and not only for children. Mechanical tin toys, as our grandparents and great-grandparents knew and loved them, were in their time, admired childhood companions.

In many countries such toys were made, which were not only pretty and colourful, but with the help of a spring movement, could move in a most pleasing fashion.

Above all, in Great Britain, the USA, Germany, France and Japan were several well known manufacturers, who produced an endless number of wonderful tin toys.

We have tried, through this re-issue of old tin toys, to recapture some of the atmosphere prevalent in the toys made at the turn of the century.

The originals have been long lost, even though they were produced in large quantities. They have been the victims of the hands of children, who played with them until they fell to pieces, or of rust. The few surviving examples are either in museums, or with collectors, who prize these valuable treasures.

It is important to note, that these reproductions have been produced in the same way that they were 80 or 100 years ago. This means that they are, for the most part, hand-made.

First of all, sheets of tin are used, onto which are printed up to eight colours due to different motives of the toys. These tin plates are then cut up. By using heavy presses, such as were used years ago, the individual pieces are punched out. This is done with heavy forms, known as punching-tools, which cut the tin, piece by piece. In following stages, these pieces are bent, shaped and trimmed. In part, we do this work by machines, which are themselves over 60 years old. For lager models, more than 100 separate steps are required before all the parts of the toy are ready. These parts are than taken and carefully assembled by hand. The final step is the testing of the toy, before it is given a final polish, and then packed.

Naturally, this work is time-intensive. It is however, the only way to faithfully reproduce the charm and the character of the originals.

They are just filigree works in thin tin, which are to be held carefully and respectfully in one’s hand.  The children and adults of yesterday were aware of this. Please handle these toys then with the required care, if you whish to continue to enjoy them.

The surface of the toys may be slightly scratched or blemished, this is unavoidable due to the nature of the presses, which can have a pressure of up to 70 tons.

The clockwork spring is also not to be compared with the toy motors of today. The workings may jam or stutter occasionally. Give the model a little push, and it will run further.

Do not use force, as this can damage the workings.

These toys will only run on even, not too smooth surfaces. Carpets are too soft, Linoleum or plastic too smooth. Don’t forget that children a hundred years ago played on wooden floors or wooden tables.

We which you much pleasure with the toys, and hope to take you back alittle to those days of yesteryear.

Important
This toy is not designed for children. They can become injured from its sharp edges and corners. Do not put it in children’s hands. Think of your responsibility.