Minatures news

Dinky Toys have a fine Airport Fire Tender with the novelty of a real flashing roof-lamps, battery-lit and cam-actuated from a rear wheel. It is No. 276 in the Dinky Toys series by Meccano and retails at 10s. 6d., replacement batteries costing 5d. One to make the youngsters’ eyes light up! A very imposing model in the Dinky Gift Set series is a 7.2 Howitzer and Leyland 6-wheel Tractor (No. 695, 13s. 11d.), the entire ensemble measuring over 10 in. in length.

Lesney have another miniature in their “Models of Yesteryear” series, in the form of a very realistic 1914 V-twin Sunbeam motorcycle with Milford sidecar; the front forks pivot realistically. It is to a scale of 34 to 1, measures 2¾ in, in length and is claimed to set a new standard in top-class toolmaking and pressure diecasting, of which the “see-through” wire wheels are an important feature. V.M.C.C. members will no doubt buy this model with enthusiasm but some people may prefer to paint over the “silverplating” finish. This Sunbeam (Y-8) is remarkable value at 4s., inclusive of p.t. Lesney also have a little 2 6/8 in. Jaguar E-type coupe, scale 65 to 1. in their “Matchbox” series (No. 32), selling for 1s. 9d., in spite of which there are spoked “see-through” wheels, transparent windows, the driver’s being open, seats, steering wheel, luggage shelf, etc., and a high-class, double stove-enamelled finish.

Finally, yet another original aspect of this fascinating motoring in miniature, the latest Triang “Spot-on” model is of a Volvo 122S saloon to 42-to-1 scale, and rugged replica has a sliding sunroof that really opens. The price is 4s. 11d. Another “Spot-on” model is a R.A.C. Rescue Land-Rover that has spare Wheel, radio aerial, etc., and costs 5s. 11d.—W. B.