73a Leyland Pressure Refueller
Posted: Sat Feb 01, 2014 1:52 pm
This promises to be a really interesting model, with far more than the four variations listed by Nick.
The NAMC’s “Catalog of all Series Matchbox Models” (first edition) has a code 73-1-a an unlisted variation which does not have the brace between the cab. This would be the new code 1, with all other variations moving down the table one place.) The other two codes are simply noted as having a brace, the difference between them being the shade of RAF blue used. All models are noted as having a silver-trimmed front bumper.
The AIM “1-75 Series Regular Wheels” catalogue (second printing, 1983) does not list the "no brace" variation, but does state the following: "The first issued models contained broken off rear base sections which were then strengthened. These were called open end although can be found on both 'a' & 'b' models" (which match Nick's codes 1 and 2). Looking at the drawing which accompanies this note, the problem looks to be associated with the rear bumper failing to form/breaking off. Silver trim is notes as being both present and absent from the front bumper.
Neither Houghton’s “Definitive Guide to Matchbox Toys” (2007) nor Stannard includes variations not already covered by Nick.
U.K. Matchbox did not examine the model.
Now, in addition, Forum members have identified a rectangular barrel tool release hole in the baseplate at the cab end of the tank which may be either open or closed, and additional infill between the top of the rear bumper and the tank which may be either present or absent.
As if that were not enough, there are the trim variations: gold trim to the radiator grille and front bumper (found by a Forum member), silver trim to the front radiator and bumper, silver trim to the rear bumper (I don't know what the front trim is for this variation), and no trim whatsoever.
I suggest that the way forward with this model is for members to inspect the models in their collection, reporting back using Nick's variation codes with notes of the deviations. In addition, we urgently need a photograph of the "...broken off rear base section..." for reference. Please don't forget the trim when reporting your models!
The NAMC’s “Catalog of all Series Matchbox Models” (first edition) has a code 73-1-a an unlisted variation which does not have the brace between the cab. This would be the new code 1, with all other variations moving down the table one place.) The other two codes are simply noted as having a brace, the difference between them being the shade of RAF blue used. All models are noted as having a silver-trimmed front bumper.
The AIM “1-75 Series Regular Wheels” catalogue (second printing, 1983) does not list the "no brace" variation, but does state the following: "The first issued models contained broken off rear base sections which were then strengthened. These were called open end although can be found on both 'a' & 'b' models" (which match Nick's codes 1 and 2). Looking at the drawing which accompanies this note, the problem looks to be associated with the rear bumper failing to form/breaking off. Silver trim is notes as being both present and absent from the front bumper.
Neither Houghton’s “Definitive Guide to Matchbox Toys” (2007) nor Stannard includes variations not already covered by Nick.
U.K. Matchbox did not examine the model.
Now, in addition, Forum members have identified a rectangular barrel tool release hole in the baseplate at the cab end of the tank which may be either open or closed, and additional infill between the top of the rear bumper and the tank which may be either present or absent.
As if that were not enough, there are the trim variations: gold trim to the radiator grille and front bumper (found by a Forum member), silver trim to the front radiator and bumper, silver trim to the rear bumper (I don't know what the front trim is for this variation), and no trim whatsoever.
I suggest that the way forward with this model is for members to inspect the models in their collection, reporting back using Nick's variation codes with notes of the deviations. In addition, we urgently need a photograph of the "...broken off rear base section..." for reference. Please don't forget the trim when reporting your models!
