Kemlows and Master Models

Kemlows Diecasting Products was formed in North London in 1946, named after the founding directors, Charlie Kempster and William Lowe. As time went on, an increasing proportion of Kemlows' production was being bought by wholesaler BJ (Bertie) Ward, who in the earky 1950s developed his own marketing literature and 'Wardie' brand, dropping the Kemlows name from their products. BJ Ward also introduced the Master Models range at this time, concentrating on 00 scale model railway buildings and accessories mainly made by Kemlows but also other manufacturers. Meanwhile, Kemlows were also producing the 'K' series range of road vehicles and accessories in various scales under the 'Master' and 'Wee World' banners, as well as the 'Sentry Box' range of Matchbox-size military vehicles. The 1960s saw plastic models joining the range, manufactured for Kemlows by Collis Plastics. Kemlows' toy production gradually ceased during the 1970s in favour of industrial castings, which the company still manufactures to this day.