I like those. The Dinky TB2 isn't a great likeness but it will always be one of my all time favourites as I adored it as a kid and probably played with it more than any other single toy.
Interesting point, Wote, even the model number changed too, didn't it. As you'll know the model went through several changes over time, but in my opinion the final blue one with the metal base was certainly the most robust, with stronger improved legs. The last version with the plastic base was probably down to cost cutting, though.
Absolutely, Mish, very easily broken. The first version that had rivets instead of screws were impossible to replace unless your dad was an engineer.:)
Dinky made at least a couple of design errors in the functionality of their toys. The original green TB2 wasn't helped by the instructions to push down on the pod (while the craft's legs were down) to release it, which, because of the pod's tight fit, accounts for the many broken legs. The SPV was too heavy to prevent the missile hatch popping up when merely placing the toy on the carpet (or pushing it along), as the weight of the vehicle on the front wheels activated the release mechanism for the hatch. Despite that, two brilliant toys. Interestingly, the '90s Matchbox TB2 was the same size as the first Dinky one, yet didn't have a problem with the legs breaking, so Dinky could've fixed the problem without 'going large'.
I like those. The Dinky TB2 isn't a great likeness but it will always be one of my all time favourites as I adored it as a kid and probably played with it more than any other single toy.
ReplyDeleteYes, it's a nostalgic favourite of mine, Kev. I remember taking mine into junior school at end of term when we could bring toys in to play with.
DeleteWhy was the moulding on the blue version so drastically altered from the green?
ReplyDeleteInteresting point, Wote, even the model number changed too, didn't it. As you'll know the model went through several changes over time, but in my opinion the final blue one with the metal base was certainly the most robust, with stronger improved legs. The last version with the plastic base was probably down to cost cutting, though.
DeleteAs always, a fine photo session. I like the water effects too!
ReplyDeleteThanks Lewis.
DeleteThose first generation Dinky TB2 legs were sooo fragile!
ReplyDeleteAlmost like plastic toothpicks.
Mish.
Absolutely, Mish, very easily broken. The first version that had rivets instead of screws were impossible to replace unless your dad was an engineer.:)
DeleteDinky made at least a couple of design errors in the functionality of their toys. The original green TB2 wasn't helped by the instructions to push down on the pod (while the craft's legs were down) to release it, which, because of the pod's tight fit, accounts for the many broken legs. The SPV was too heavy to prevent the missile hatch popping up when merely placing the toy on the carpet (or pushing it along), as the weight of the vehicle on the front wheels activated the release mechanism for the hatch. Despite that, two brilliant toys. Interestingly, the '90s Matchbox TB2 was the same size as the first Dinky one, yet didn't have a problem with the legs breaking, so Dinky could've fixed the problem without 'going large'.
ReplyDeleteYes indeed, Kid, all my Dinky SPV's suffer from that hair trigger mechanism.:)
Delete