Hi
Happy Birthday!
Recently the subject of Matchbox Annuals came up, and I thought they deserved a closer look. Since I do not have either of these volumes, it is just a brief look.
Lesney, the makers of Matchbox toys, ventured in to the world of publishing several times over the years. There was an early set of four colouring-in books; Mike and the Modelmakers was a look inside the Matchbox factory, at how Matchbox toys were made; and a short-lived line of Annuals. Just two, in fact.
Published by Purnell and Sons Ltd., each was a 64-page hardback, in the usual Annual style. There were comic strips, games, a quiz, and articles. Most of these featured the real vehicles Matchbox models were based on.
The title is The Matchbox Annual, and there is no date or other means of identification on the cover. However, there is a copyright date inside. The front and back covers are identical. Both feature a variety of Matchbox models, driving or flying right off the page.
Red cover, copyright date 1979
Among the articles were: refuelling a Jumbo Jet; a look at the Opel Monza, with a cut-away showing the interior; Veteran cars; and the last of the British aircraft carriers, HMS Ark Royal.
Green cover, copyright date 1980
Articles included: Aeroplanes through the Ages; Rally Driving; Customized Cars; and Battleships - actually a look at the different types of warship.
Photographs both from Worthpoint.
Have you got one or both?
Paul Adams from New Zealand
Interesting report Paul. I've got the red one from you've guessed it, a car boot. In 1979 I was 18 so I wouldn't have had one back then. I wonder if a die-cast annual would interest kids nowadays?
ReplyDelete