"MATCHBOX" copies etc.

[GHOSTHUNTER]

Thanks for the pictures Ford_a_30, reconise a couple of models like 'Blue Box' and some soft plastic copies marketed as 'Polythene Miniature', and as crude as a lot of these types of products are, they do have a certain attraction.

GHOSTHUNTER.

[GHOSTHUNTER]

Here is a model that on first impressions is not a copy of the #69c Rolls-Royce 'Drop-Top' next to it, until you turn over and look at the baseplate design. This is clearly copied from the baseplate on the "Matchbox" model and I have highlighted the area of significance.

The plastic model has made in Hong Kong on the base, but no other markings and the model is not easily identifiable, it does not share anything with known products from the well established companies like 'TAT', 'TELSALDA', 'LUCKY TOYS', 'LINCOLN' or 'CLIFFORD', and the only reference I have for it in my listings is a similar model but with a saloon body so it has the roof, a 'Silver Lady' mascot and different wheels, attributed to 'RM' the same company to bring Lady Penelope's "FAB I" onto the UK market.

GHOSTHUNTER.

[johnboy]

Here's a Guy Warrior Transporter, I haven't seen this one before.

It's on a BIN if anyone is interested.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/360977990804? ... 1423.l2648

[fixer]

I have seen these fetching crazy, stupid, mental prices on E bay.

not wrong Alex as you say crazy prices , makes me very happy to have one
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/260945641286? ... EBIDX%3AIT

[GHOSTHUNTER]

Here's a Guy Warrior Transporter, I haven't seen this one before.

It's on a BIN if anyone is interested.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/360977990804? ... 1423.l2648

Hello Johnboy, this plastic copy was marketed by 'GORDY' in the US markets, not entirely sure who was actually moulding this and I expect it will be found marketed by other wholesale and distributors.

I think I have mentioned 'GORDY' previously in this thread, on an earlier page, so it is a distributor we are aware of for selling "Matchbox" copies and I would not be surprised to find it originally had some cars with it (also copies of "Matchbox"), in the style of 'CH', 'CROCKER' and 'BLUE BOX' models.

Thanks for bringing it to this thread.

GHOSTHUNTER.

[fixer]

just found this on ebay bin
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ULTRA-RARE-70 ... 19ed5d6499

[GHOSTHUNTER]

Thank's for the link Reg, yet another one to add to the listing of copies. 'MIRA' were quite big in their home country and they must have been close to Lesney regards collaboration on tooling because both companies were essentially offering the same sort of toys and models.

I must admit I quite like it for what it is, a copy, or at least 'Inspired by' the Lesney original, very nice example in that deep blue.

Ghosty.

[fixer]

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ULTRA-RARE-70 ... 19ed5d6b0c
that's a pleasure Kevin same seller also has this one

[GHOSTHUNTER]

Thank's, same comments as above really, except does the rear panel open on the original Lesney, if it does, why would you tool-up for your version of a well known model instead of just copying it with less of a budget, therefore not having opening features etc, does this now indicate the tools were used by 'MIRA' to be able to have what is basically the same castings...interesting, needs further looking into.

You may have opened a can of worms there Reg...

Ghosty.

[GHOSTHUNTER]

Just found a picture of the Lesney Datsun and the rear panel does open...now what do I do...

Ghosty.