Since none of the usual suspects have risen to the challenge, here are my thoughts:
- As Nick says on
his catalogue page for this model: “
I guess it was to add play value that Lesney saw fit to add a tow hook but it is something I have never seen on a real taxi”. It is therefore quite possible that a previous owner considered the tow hook unrealistic and removed it.
- This idea is supported by the super-detailing of the headlights and rear lights, suggesting that the model may have seen service on e.g. a model railway layout (where a large triangle of white plastic sticking out of the back of a vehicle would have looked extremely odd).
- Having said that, it is interesting that the body and baseplate have closed up to leave no trace of a gap or any sight of the tow hook “tab” on the interior moulding. On the other hand, the small curl of baseplate metal at the end of the tow hook recess shown in your photogrpah implies that the tow hook has been cut off with a very sharp implement.
- It is definitely not a pre-production since the baseplate has the tow guide at the front.
- GPW 20c Taxis are highly desirable if genuine (even without their tow hooks!), but there are plenty of fakes in circulation. In order to determine whether yours is a fake or the genuine article, we need photographs of the axle ends in order to be able to determine whether or not they have been factory finished.
