Just arrived! All these Matchbox models have been added to the Tortoys catalogue during the last month or so.
The diecast models that were the larger forerunners of the 1-75 Series.
The original Lesney Matchbox miniatures series, manufactured between 1953 and 1969. Often referred to as the "Regular Wheel" range to distinguish them from the later "Superfast" wheel models which were introduced from late 1969 onwards.
This section contains models manufactured in the UK until 1986, when all production in the UK finally ceased.
In the late 1960s Lesney was coming under increasing competitive pressure from other brands, particularly Mattel's Hot Wheels. These models from the USA had special low-friction wheels on needle-thin axles, which enabled them to be raced on roller-coaster style tracks. Lesney responded in late 1969 by introducing Superfast wheels on the 1-75 range, both on new issues and on models which were previously available in "Regular Wheel" form.
A colour change often took place when a model was converted from Regular Wheel to Superfast, and sometimes "transitional" variations are found with the Regular Wheel colour scheme but with Superfast wheels - or vice versa. Some of these are very rare and can change hands for a lot of money.
The arrival of Superfast wheels heralded the introduction of fantasy models which were attractive to children because of their novelty value rather than because they represented real vehicles. For many collectors the 1-75 models made from 1970 onwards lack the period charm of the Regular Wheel issues, although some of the earlier Superfast are worthy enough of any collector's attention.
After the demise of Lesney Products in 1982 and the formation of Matchbox International, production gradually transferred from England to Macau and later China. This section contains all Matchbox miniatures made outside the UK, including those produced in Hong Kong during 1980/81 mainly for the U.S. market.
Introduced in 1982, the Convoy range featured mainly articulated trucks. This section also includes the Team Matchbox range.
Introduced in 1973, a varied range of civilian and military aircraft.
Matchbox International acquired the famous Dinky brand name in 1987 and introduced a new range of models under the 'Dinky Collection' banner. These were detailed model cars mainly of the 50s and 60s, aimed at adult collectors. After a few years they were absorbed into the Matchbox Collectibles range, marking the end of Dinky as a distinct product line.
A selection of budget price Matchbox items. Some have a little more play wear than usual, others are suitable for restoration - have a browse, you might find a real bargain!
Lesney diversified into the plastic construction kit market with the first range of aircraft kits appearing in 1973. Unlike their rivals, the Matchbox kits were moulded in two or three colours, giving a more realistic appearance when assembled without painting. Lesney acquired AMT in 1979, which added larger scale vehicle kits to the range, but in 1982 Lesney went into receivership and AMT was sold to ERTL. Matchbox kits continued to be produced; in 1991 Revell purchased the moulds and the range was gradually absorbed into theirs.
