Toys, games, dolls and models Books

239 products


  • Early Chess Pieces from the Crossroads of Asia  The Timor Shah Collection

    5 in stock

    £33.25

  • Desktop Door Slam

    Running Press Desktop Door Slam

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisRelease your aggression with Desktop Door Slam--the perfect desk accessory for fun yet effective stress relief. UNIQUE DESKTOP ACCESSORY: Includes a 3' spring-loaded 'door' that's ready to be slammed when needed FUN SOUND FEATURE: The door electronically produces a satisfying SLAM sound BOOK INCLUDED: 32-page, 2-1/2 x 3' humorous mini book with full-color illustrations PERFECT GIFT: A great gag gift for new graduates entering the workforce, stocking stuffer, or White Elephant gift

    1 in stock

    £8.97

  • Britain's Toy Soldiers: The History and Handbook 1893-2013

    Pen & Sword Books Ltd Britain's Toy Soldiers: The History and Handbook 1893-2013

    3 in stock

    This is the first full-colour history of the world-famous toy soldiers to chart the whole story of their development from Victorian table toy to 21st Century collectable. Prior to 1893 the family toy business of the Britain family was struggling as the toy industry was dominated by German manufacturers and importers. Then came the fateful decision first to import, then to design and manufacture, toy soldiers, an area the German firms were particularly strong in. Britains Toy Soldiers were born and soon their boxes stamped with the slogan 'Best Quality English Make' were being eagerly opened by little boys across Britain and then around the world. The rest, as they say is history and it is all captured here by James Opie, the world's leading expert on the subject, as he lovingly traces the varying fortunes of arguably the most famous British toy company. Illustrated with lavish colour photographs, many of them featuring items from the author's own collection, the book includes feature sections such as collectors' favourites and prices, high-value and famous sets, artistic highlights, quirks and mysteries.It is without doubt the most authoritative book on the subject and will be welcomed by the thousands of devoted collectors world wide as well as many more with fond memories of childhood battles with these beautiful toys.

    3 in stock

    £28.00

  • Dolls' Houses

    V & A Publishing Dolls' Houses

    Book SynopsisDolls' Houses have fascinated children and adults for centuries. This delightful book, revised and now presented in hardback with a new foreword by artist Rachel Whiteread, explores the astonishing skill and craftsmanship required to create these miniature homes. A brief history of dolls' houses is followed by a closer look at some of the most interesting and historically significant examples in the V&A's collection. From country mansions to cosy suburban villas, from a Japanese house to Rachel Whiteread's celebrated installation Place (Village) it uncovers the fascinating role that dolls' houses have played in the lives of their owners and as records of contemporary lifestyle. The book ends with a full catalogue of the dolls' houses held by the museum.Trade ReviewReview of the 2014 edition '...a tantalising introduction to a craft that has been around nearly 500 years and looks set to endure.' Jessie Burton, Art Quarterly, December 2014'Table of ContentsForeword: Rachel Whiteread -- Introduction: A Brief History of the Dolls' House -- The Nuremberg House 1673 -- The Edmund Joy Wardrobe 1712 -- The Tate Baby House 1760 -- Henriques's House late 1700s -- The Killer Cabinet House 1830-40 -- Betty Pinney's House 1870 -- Box Back Terrace House 1890s -- Miss Miles's House 1890s -- Peggy Lines's house 1930s -- Whiteladies House 1935 -- Roma Hopkinson's House 1990s -- The Kaleidoscope House 2001 -- A Collection of Toys - How It All Began -- Appendix -- Bibliography -- About the Author -- Acknowledgements

    £18.00

  • TeenyTiny Christmas Cactus

    Running Press Book Publishers TeenyTiny Christmas Cactus

    3 in stock

    Book Synopsis

    3 in stock

    £10.49

  • The Big Book of Matchbox Superfast Toys 19692004

    Schiffer Publishing Ltd The Big Book of Matchbox Superfast Toys 19692004

    7 in stock

    Book Synopsis

    7 in stock

    £23.79

  • Naval Ship Models of World War II in 1/1250 and

    Pen & Sword Books Ltd Naval Ship Models of World War II in 1/1250 and

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisThe origins of 1/1250 and 1/200 scale models can be traced back to the first years of the twentieth century and their use as identification aids by the military during the First World War. When peace came the manufacturers aimed their increasingly sophisticated products at collectors, and ever since then acquiring, enhancing, modifying or scratch-building miniature ship models has been an avidly pursued hobby around the world. This new book focusses on models of the ships of the Second World War, probably the most popular subject for miniature model collectors, and the author, a well-known modeller himself, addresses all the practical issues that might confront those many collectors who like to enhance, convert, and modify their models, or even scratch-build models of ships not commercially available. The book covers both Allied and Axis warships, naval airplanes, merchant conversions and even an Italian armed schooner, and provides historic and technical information on the ships represented as well as practical advice on modelling them. The latter is extensive with twenty-five chapters covering everything from initial production techniques such as spin casting, silicon mould casting, resin casting, die-casting, plastic mould injection, and 3D printing through techniques for enhancing and modifying models to eventually researching and scratch-building an uncommon ship or type. The focus is always on particular vessels and the vast array covered by the author builds into a fascinating panorama of the vessels that fought across the world's oceans in that era. The combination of intriguing background and historical information, combined with detailed practical information and more than 300 stunning photographs will make this book irresistible to any collector or modeller and, indeed, to anyone with an interest in the navies of the Second World War.

    2 in stock

    £21.25

  • Japanese Kokeshi Dolls: The Woodcraft and Culture

    Tuttle Publishing Japanese Kokeshi Dolls: The Woodcraft and Culture

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisAn inside look at kokeshi dolls: from the skilled woodworkers behind their design to their important cultural significance.Discover the simplicity and charm of traditional Japanese Kokeshi dolls, known for their cylindrical shape and distinctive absence of arms and legs. Originally crafted as children's toys in Japan's Tohoku region, these dolls have evolved into sought-after collector's items, inspiring renowned architects and artists worldwide.In this visual guide, readers will find: An overview of the various Kokeshi doll types How kokeshi dolls are crafted, including information on tools and woods used Interviews with leading kokeshi craftspeople worldwide Detailed information on both traditional and modern Kokeshi dolls An exploration of the cultural significance, both historically and in the post-earthquake and tsunami rebuilding efforts of northern Japan in 2011 A guide to visiting Japan's kokeshi regions Tips on purchasing these dolls directly from Japanese artisans or through global stockists Filled with artist interviews, gorgeous photos and firsthand travel experience, author Manami Okazaki has created a book to be enjoyed by all — from serious collectors to woodcrafters, interior designers, architects, armchair travelers and anyone with an interest in Japanese culture and travel.Trade Review"The book is sweeping. It starts with the definition of kokeshi, continues on to the craft, the artisans, the 12 traditional styles, contemporary styles, the regions where they are produced, and ends with information as to how to see and purchase them online. The ample number of photographs provides a full view of the different styles and of the individual craftsmen. Both the photographs and the organization of the book make the information easily accessible." —International Examiner

    2 in stock

    £15.29

  • Toy Soldiers

    The Crowood Press Ltd Toy Soldiers

    3 in stock

    Book SynopsisTrade ReviewAn excellent introduction to the hobby for new collectors, as well as a very readable reference for more experienced enthusiasts. Every budding or hardcore collector should have a copy of this hardback volume on their bookshelf. -- George Phillips, Toy Soldier Collector issue 114 * Toy Soldier Collector issue 114 *

    3 in stock

    £22.50

  • Dungeons  Dragons Beholder Figurine

    Running Press Dungeons Dragons Beholder Figurine

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisBeauty is in the eye of the Beholder with this officially licensed miniature figurine. FIGURINE WITH LIGHT: A one-of-a-kind 3-inch figurine of the popular monster: the Beholder with a glowing eye  BOOK INCLUDED: Learn more about this iconic monster in this fully illustrated 32-page miniature book PERFECT GIFT FOR D&D FANS: Display on a shelf, desk, or bookcase and show off your love of Dungeons & Dragons OFFICIALLY LICENSED: Authentic Dungeons & Dragons collectible Dungeons & Dragons, D&D, their respective logos, and the dragon ampersand, are registered trademarks of Wizards of the Coast LLC. ©2022 Wizards of the Coast. All rights reserved.

    2 in stock

    £10.96

  • LEGO Marvel Visual Dictionary

    Dorling Kindersley Ltd LEGO Marvel Visual Dictionary

    5 in stock

    Book SynopsisSimon Hugo is the co-author and author of several best-selling LEGO? books including LEGO? Ideas Book: New Edition, the LEGO Star Wars Yoda's Galaxy Atlas and LEGO? Star Wars: Choose Your Path. He has written on a variety of other pop-culture subjects including James Bond, Star Trek and Doctor Who.Amy Richau writes about pop culture and film history. She's the author of Star Wars I Love You. I Know.: Lessons in Love and Friendship, and her work has appeared in StarWars.com, StarTrek.com, Star Wars Insider magazine, and Nerdist. She was a researcher for and appeared in the docu-series Looking for Leia. Amy lives outside Boulder, Colorado, with her husband, two children, and several pets.

    5 in stock

    £16.99

  • LEGO Harry Potter Visual Dictionary

    Dorling Kindersley Ltd LEGO Harry Potter Visual Dictionary

    1 in stock

    Book Synopsis

    1 in stock

    £16.99

  • Cooke D Corgi Toys

    Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Cooke D Corgi Toys

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisAlthough the name Corgi Toys was not introduced until 1955, the roots of the original holding company, Mettoy, go back to 1932 when a German toymaker called Philipp Ullmann arrived in Britain to form a new toy manufacturing company. This company produced many types of toys, both before and after the Second World War, mainly in tinplate. In the 1950s Mettoy began to produce diecast metal toys and hence, in 1956 the first Corgi Toys were released to the children''s toy market and proved an immediate success. Over the next 30 years hundreds of miniature vehicles would be modeled on contemporary vehicles such as Vauxhalls, Rileys, Hillmans, Standards, Commers and ERFs. Corgi also made daring and successful ventures into film-and-TV related toys with their versions of James Bond, The Saint and Batmobile cars selling millions. Life-long collector David Cooke explores the history of Corgi Toys, describing the various models and illustrating how these simple children''s toys became valuable collectables. He also charts the recent financial problems faced by the company, and their resurgence based upon Limited Edition collectors'' models sold direct to an adult market.

    2 in stock

    £8.99

  • The Official Barbie Cocktail Book

    Running Press Book Publishers The Official Barbie Cocktail Book

    1 in stock

    Book Synopsis

    1 in stock

    £19.80

  • The Complete  Unauthorized Guide to Vintage

    Schiffer Publishing Ltd The Complete Unauthorized Guide to Vintage

    2 in stock

    Book Synopsis

    2 in stock

    £23.79

  • Robin Hood and Other ITC Swashbuckling

    Amberley Publishing Robin Hood and Other ITC Swashbuckling

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisA nostalgic look back at the merchandise of these cult 1960s TV shows, highly illustrated throughout.

    2 in stock

    £14.39

  • The Avengers and New Avengers Collectibles

    Amberley Publishing The Avengers and New Avengers Collectibles

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisRare and unusual items from the iconic TV show. What can be said about what is probably âtheâ fantasy adventure series of the sixties?

    2 in stock

    £13.49

  • Collecting The Simpsons: The Merchandise and

    Yellow Pear Press Collecting The Simpsons: The Merchandise and

    Book SynopsisThe Simpsons Merchandise Guide for all Simpsons Lovers#1 New Release in Antiques and CollectiblesThis quirky book unleashes the entire story of all Simpsons merchandise, spanning over decades. Warren Evans, the Bart of Darkness, details a massive collection of rare Simpsons memorabilia.Jump right into 90s nostalgia! Simpsons Lovers everywhere can explore the explosion of Simpsons merchandise and products, right in the comfort of their own home. From action figures, video games, comics, lunch boxes, and yes, even cookie jars, this book is a collectors paradise full of insightful information.The perfect collector’s item to have! This full-color guide features high quality photos of Simpsons-inspired products, and never-before-seen interviews from the toys' creators, writers, actors, and producers. This is the perfect gift for fans of Friends, Family Guy, and the like!Inside, you’ll find: Never-before-seen in-depth interviews and collector items from real-life Simpsons lovers Read for fun: all of the words of Warren Evans, a note-worthy expert on The Simpsons family Full-colored photographs of Simpsons merchandise and collector items from the beginning of the Simpsons dynasty If you're looking for one of the best books for tv nerds who like The Big Bang Theory, Welcome to Dunder Mifflin, or The Simpsons Secret, then Collecting the Simpsons belongs right on your bookshelf!Table of ContentsTable of Contents Introduction Chapter 1: Simpsons Mania - The Explosion of Simpsons Merchandise Chapter 2: Toys Chapter 3: Clothing Chapter 4: Comics Chapter 5: Video Games Chapter 6: Trading Cards and Stickers Chapter 7: Home Entertainment VHS/ DVDs Chapter 8: Simpsons House Giveaway Chapter 9: Bootlegs Chapter 10: The fall of The Simpsons Chapter 11: Resurgence Conclusion About the Authors

    £26.99

  • The Bee and the Butterfly Playing Cards

    Union Square & Co. The Bee and the Butterfly Playing Cards

    5 in stock

    5 in stock

    £16.19

  • Queen Elizabeth II Paper Dolls

    Dover Publications Inc. Queen Elizabeth II Paper Dolls

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisCelebrate the fairy tale life of Queen Elizabeth II, the longest reigning British monarch in history, with this majestic paper doll collection. Two dolls capture Elizabeth as a young woman and a more mature matriarch, while dozens of royal outfits feature her stunning coronation gown designed by Norman Hartnell as well as other fabulous couture that have made her a fashion icon admired worldwide. Plus, a doll and wardrobe for Prince Philip is also included.

    1 in stock

    £10.45

  • Desktop Snowboarding

    Running Press Desktop Snowboarding

    Book SynopsisShred the slopes with Desktop Snowboarding! This kit contains everything you need to assemble a miniature winter mountain slope so you can do some finger snowboarding, right at your desk.* MINI SNOWBOARD: Includes 3-inch mini snowboard with tiny boots attached for your fingers* ONE-OF-A-KIND MINI MOUNTAIN SLOPE PIECES: A mini, flocked mountain slope in two pieces that snaps together, including a jump ramp on one side and a rail on the other* CUSTOMIZABLE: Incudes 2 sheets of full-color sticker to deck out your board* BOOK INCLUDED: Instructional mini book on finger snowboarding, accompanied by full-color illustrations

    £9.53

  • The Saint and Return of the Saint Collectibles

    Amberley Publishing The Saint and Return of the Saint Collectibles

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisThe latest Amberley collectibles book, focusing on the iconic TV show The Saint and Return of the Saint.

    2 in stock

    £14.39

  • The Prisoner and Danger Man Collectibles

    Amberley Publishing The Prisoner and Danger Man Collectibles

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisThe collectible merchandise produced in relation to the iconic TV series The Prisoner and Danger Man.

    2 in stock

    £14.39

  • Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Collectibles

    Amberley Publishing Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Collectibles

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisMatt MacNabb explores one of the most beloved and collectible franchises of all time.

    1 in stock

    £14.39

  • Scalextric Collectibles

    Amberley Publishing Scalextric Collectibles

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisJon Mountfort explores the iconic British toy, and offers hints and tips that will delight current and prospective collectors, as well as the general Scalextric enthusiast.

    2 in stock

    £14.39

  • The Real Ghostbusters A Visual History Deluxe

    Dark Horse Comics,U.S. The Real Ghostbusters A Visual History Deluxe

    2 in stock

    Book Synopsis

    2 in stock

    £74.24

  • The Mikoyan-Gurevich Mig-3 Vol. I

    Kagero Oficyna Wydawnicza The Mikoyan-Gurevich Mig-3 Vol. I

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisThe MiG-3 fighter plane, like the history of the creation of the Mikoyan and Gurevich (Микоян и Гуревич) design bureau, is relatively well known to anyone interested in the history of Soviet aviation. Many books and articles have been published about this machine, but information about the circumstances of the birth of the project and the conditions of its creation are very brief and concise. MiG-1 and MiG-3 were the most numerous new generation fighters in Soviet aviation at the time of the German invasion of the USSR. They played a very important role in the first period of the war. Until now, it has been assumed in the literature that this applies mainly to the use of these aircraft during the battle of Moscow, as well as capital's and Leningrad's air defence, but MiGs also took on a large weight of air combat at the front in 1941.Trade ReviewEnjoyed it. * The Historical Miniatures Gaming Society 07/12/2022 *

    1 in stock

    £21.68

  • Adrift: The Curious Tale of the Lego Lost at Sea

    Unicorn Publishing Group Adrift: The Curious Tale of the Lego Lost at Sea

    15 in stock

    Book SynopsisIn 1997 sixty-two containers fell off the cargo ship Tokio Express after it was hit by a rogue wave off the coast of Cornwall, including one container filled with nearly five million pieces of Lego, much of it sea themed. In the months that followed, beachcombers started to find Lego washed up on beaches across the south west coast. Among the pieces they discovered were octopuses, sea grass, spear guns, life rafts, scuba tanks, cutlasses, flippers and dragons. The pieces are still washing up today.

    15 in stock

    £17.00

  • Fantastic Beasts Niffler

    Running Press,U.S. Fantastic Beasts Niffler

    Book SynopsisOfficially licensed, one-of-a-kind collectible figure of the beloved Niffler from Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. A perfect gift for fans of the Wizarding World. * SPECIFICATIONS: 3 inch figure of the Niffler mounted on a base* INCLUDES SOUND: Audio of the mischievous Niffler plays at the push of a button* IDENTIFICATION CARD INCLUDED: An illustrated description card provides information on the magical creature* PERFECT GIFT: A unique gift for fans of the wizarding world* OFFICIALLY LICENSED: Authentic Wizarding World collectibleWARNING - KEEP BUTTON BATTERIES OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN Swallowing may lead to serious or fatal injury in as little as 2 hours due to chemical burns and potential perforation of the esophagus. Never allow children to replace button batteries of any device. If you suspect your child has swallowed or inserted a button battery immediately call the 24-Hour Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 (Australia) or 0800 764 76

    £12.53

  • Magic The Gathering The Visual Guide

    Dorling Kindersley Ltd Magic The Gathering The Visual Guide

    7 in stock

    Book SynopsisExplore the planes of magic on a spellbinding journey of discoveryMagic: The Gathering is a fantastical Multiverse of mystical beings, fabled realms, and mythical creatures. Dominating all are the mighty magic users known as planeswalkers. To be a planeswalker is to be powerful beyond measure-a being who can bend magic to their will and step through the veil of reality itself. These fearsome mages cross between the planes of existence, battling to save others or to destroy them, to fight darkness or to create it. Magic: The Gathering The Visual Guide illuminates the wondrous worlds they traverse, reveals their arcane lore, weapons, artefacts, and spells, and recounts their legendary exploits. Produced in close collaboration with Wizards of the Coast and featuring never before published profiles of new planes, such as Strixhaven and Kaldheim, this book is the first time MTG''s key characters and locations are showcased in one sumptuous, indispensable, and up-to-date guide to its vast and expanding Multiverse. 2022 Wizards of the Coast LLC

    7 in stock

    £21.25

  • The Unauthorized Encyclopedia of Corgi Toys

    Schiffer Publishing Ltd The Unauthorized Encyclopedia of Corgi Toys

    1 in stock

    Book Synopsis

    1 in stock

    £25.59

  • The Complete Book of Hot WheelsÂ

    Schiffer Publishing Ltd The Complete Book of Hot WheelsÂ

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisA complete visual guide with a listing of the many variations to help collectors sort through the vast and rapidly growing world of Hot Wheels.

    1 in stock

    £23.79

  • The Big Book of Matchbox Superfast Toys 19692004

    Schiffer Publishing Ltd The Big Book of Matchbox Superfast Toys 19692004

    1 in stock

    Book Synopsis

    1 in stock

    £23.79

  • Lesneys Matchbox Toys

    Schiffer Publishing Ltd Lesneys Matchbox Toys

    1 in stock

    Book Synopsis

    1 in stock

    £17.09

  • Marbles Identification and Price Guide

    Schiffer Publishing Ltd Marbles Identification and Price Guide

    1 in stock

    Book Synopsis

    1 in stock

    £17.09

  • The Encyclopedia of Matchbox Toys

    Schiffer Publishing Ltd The Encyclopedia of Matchbox Toys

    2 in stock

    Book Synopsis

    2 in stock

    £25.59

  • Your Pinball Machine

    Schiffer Publishing, Ltd. Your Pinball Machine

    1 in stock

    Book Synopsis

    1 in stock

    £29.59

  • Collecting Toy Soldiers in the 21st Century

    Pen & Sword Books Ltd Collecting Toy Soldiers in the 21st Century

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisExpert advice and entertaining anecdotes from world's leading expert. Guidance on price trends and buying or selling at auction. Lavishly illustrated with well over 200 colour photos of the author's fantastic collectionForeword by Sir Max Hastings

    1 in stock

    £17.09

  • Ghostbusters Collectables

    Amberley Publishing Ghostbusters Collectables

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisA profusely illustrated guide to the world of Ghostbusters collectables.

    1 in stock

    £14.39

  • Triang Collectables

    Amberley Publishing Triang Collectables

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisDave Angell explores the collectible nature of the iconic Tri-ang ( Hornby Hobbies Ltd) brand.

    1 in stock

    £14.39

  • Jurassic Park Collectibles

    Amberley Publishing Jurassic Park Collectibles

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisA brilliantly illustrated look back at the toys and merchandise associated with one of the most famous and lucrative franchises of all time.

    1 in stock

    £14.39

  • Teddy Bears

    Amberley Publishing Teddy Bears

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisA lavishly illustrated look at the history behind one of the most iconic toys of all time - the Teddy Bear.

    1 in stock

    £14.39

  • Corgi Toys

    Amberley Publishing Corgi Toys

    2 in stock

    Book SynopsisCorgi Toys â âthe ones with windowsâ were the toy cars to have in the 1960s, 70s and early 80s. This is the ideal introduction to these toy vehicles, made in Swansea until 1983.

    2 in stock

    £8.54

  • The Secrets of LEGO House

    Chronicle Books The Secrets of LEGO House

    Book SynopsisThis guide takes you on a tour of the "home of the brick," the official LEGO® House, so you can experience it for yourself at home!With photos, interviews, essays, and art from the LEGO archives, The Secrets of LEGO House explores the visual wonders and the themed "zones"—yellow for emotions, blue for problem solving, green for social interaction, and red for creativity—within the iconic LEGO House in Billund, Denmark.The Secrets of LEGO House offers an insider''s look at the creative philosophy behind the iconic brand. On each page, discover the true "secret" hidden among the 25 million LEGO bricks—that everything in the house is purposefully designed around nine core principles of learning through play.A joy for those who aren''t able to visit in person, and just as exciting for those who have, The Secrets of LEGO House is a bright, colorful celebration of the endless experiences possible with LEGO bricks.• EXCLUSIVE CONTENT: This book is a perfect gift or self-purchase for avid collectors and super fans seeking new, never-before-published content.• BROAD APPEAL: This book is not only perfect for longtime LEGO collectors, but also a broader audience of fans looking to explore the history of the toy they know and love.• BELOVED BRAND: For decades, the LEGO brand has inspired billions of people to stretch the limits of their imaginations. This book captures the creativity and joy at the heart of the LEGO brand, taking readers behind the scenes to reveal the brand''s core ethos and ideals.

    £24.00

  • The History of Toy Soldiers

    Pen & Sword Books Ltd The History of Toy Soldiers

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisLavishly illustrated with hundreds of colour photographs, many depicting the author's own collection, this is a fascinating survey of the history of toy (and model) soldiers, from ancient times to the early 21st century.

    1 in stock

    £32.00

  • A History of Tri-ang and Lines Brothers Ltd: The

    Pen & Sword Books Ltd A History of Tri-ang and Lines Brothers Ltd: The

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisThe toy industry and its close relationship with children's artefacts and equipment made a significant contribution to the light industries which came to increasing prominence in the British economy over the twentieth century as traditional heavy manufacturing declined. The demand for toys, both national and international, accelerated after the Great Exhibition of 1851 and two brothers, George and Joseph Lines, were among the most prominent of the manufacturers to emerge in the Victorian period. However, it was Lines Brothers Ltd., formally incorporated in 1919 by Joseph's three sons, which very quickly established itself as the leading British toy company, overcoming the vicissitudes of depression and world war to become the world's largest toy manufacturer by the 1950s. With operations in many parts of the world it was arguably the world's first multi-national toy company, enjoying something of a golden age before collapsing spectacularly in the face of intensifying international competition and a changing economic climate. This is the fascinating story of a family business whose iconic Tri-ang trademark was universally recognised and whose most famous products included model railways, Spot-on and Minic cars, soft toys, Pedigree prams, dolls' houses, Scalextric, and Cindy dolls. It is a serious economic, business and industrial history, touching on important themes such as the interplay between government and business, the nature of entrepreneurship, the significance of company culture and organisation, and the changing nature of childhood. Above all, it is a story of strong personalities, familial tensions, and an underlying determination to bring delight to children.

    1 in stock

    £17.00

  • Matchbox Toys

    Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Matchbox Toys

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisMatchbox toys were ubiquitous items for children across the Western world. Originally labelled Christmas-cracker trash by retailers and shopkeepers, the small-scale 1-75 series soon began to see unprecedented worldwide sales in the 1950s. Smaller and cheaper than most of its competitors’ toys, Matchbox models were also far more accurately modelled, but the company has nevertheless seen its own share of competition and challenging times over the years. In this beautifully illustrated book, Matchbox collector Nick Jones tells the story of Matchbox and its most famous toys, from the Coronation Coach to Hotwheels dragsters, and complements the story with beautiful, previously unpublished photographs.Table of ContentsThe Birth of Lesney 1947-56 The '1-75' Series Regular Wheels 1953-69 The '1-75' Series Superfast Issues 1969-83 Accessory Packs, Major Packs and the Kingsize Range The Models of Yesteryear Service Stations, Roadways and Catalogues The Final Days Further Reading and Other Information Index

    1 in stock

    £10.35

  • Farming in Miniature Vol. 2: A Review of

    Fox Chapel Publishers International Farming in Miniature Vol. 2: A Review of

    1 in stock

    Book SynopsisFarming in Miniature is an essential guide for collectors of British toy models interested in farm tractors, farm horses and associated agricultural equipment. Many of the toys identified and described have never previously been mentioned in collectors' literature. It is being published in two volumes.Table of ContentsVolume 1 covers the following: Airfix - Authentic Model Books - Benbros - Britains - Budgie - Bullock - Chad Valley - Charbens - Cheerio - Cherilea - Childs and Smith - Coral - Corgi - Crescent - D.C.M.T. and Lone Star - Deltoys - Denzil Skinner. The manufacturers / brands are arranged alphabetically. Each manufacturer has its own chapter introduced by an account of its history. These introductions cross-refer to the captioned photographs that follow and which make up the bulk of the chapters. In their general introduction the authors say that they have 'attempted to illustrate all significant variations of colour and packaging, particularly of rare or unusual models, so as to make the book as comprehensive as possible.' The three authors, all leading authorities, have drawn on their extensive past experience coupled with another five years to research, write and prepare photographs. Volume 2 Farming in Miniature 2: Dinky to Wen-al describes 52 manufacturers with supplementary chapters on promotional model tractors, unknown manufacturers and unidentifies heavy tractors. This guide also includes a Guide to Harnessed Horses along with a Model Index and a General Index which cover the content in both books of this 2-volume encylclopeaedia. Manufacturers and brands included in Volume 2: covers the following: Dinky, Dragon Toys, Edith Reynolds, Escor, Fairchild, Fairylite, Forest Toys, Glyntoys, Grace Toys, Hercules, Hitchin Components, Hobbies Husky and Corgi Juniors, Johillco, Kayron Playthings, A.V.H.. Farm Toys and Olson Farminit Toys, Kleeware, Kondor, Kraftoyz, Leeway, Early Lesney Toys, Lipkin, Luntoy, Marx, Master Models (Kemlows), Matchbox, Maylow, Mears, Merit, Mettoy, Micromodels, Mills, Moko, Nicoltoys, Paramount, Passall, Peter Ward, Poplar Plastics, Primus Engineering, Shackleton, Sontaw, Speedwelll, Spot-On, S.T., Taylor and Barrett, F.G. Taylor & Sons, Taylor Toys, T.N. Thomas, Timpo, Tri-ang, Tudor Rose and Rosedale, Wells-Brimtoy, Wend-al. A huge number of photographs are included to thoroughly cover the details of model farm toys.

    1 in stock

    £39.96

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