Gift Cards Now Available for our Online Toy Shop

We’re delighted to launch our new gift card service, just in time for Christmas.

Gift cards are a great idea if you can’t think what to get that special someone or you just can’t choose between all of our awesome toys and games. Perhaps you’re in a rush, and haven’t got time to look, or you have too many invites to too many parties!

Whatever the reason, we have the answer.

Gift cards are available both online and in-store and are guaranteed to make the recipient smile.

Purchase gift card.

New Traditional Toy Shop Opens in Moss Vale, Southern Highlands NSW

We’ve officially launched our gorgeously fun and funky bricks and mortar store, down in the beautiful NSW Southern Highlands.  

We’ve set up shop in the heart of the region, Moss Vale, just a short distance away from the historic town of Berrima and the popular tourist destination of Bowral. 

We have something for everyone in our amazing treasure trove of goodies. We have toys and games galore, and have partnered with our other family business, Motique, purveyor of gifts and games for the discerning gentlemen in your lives. 

So, roll up, roll in, and step back in time as we take you on a trip down memory lane.  

Our beautiful mural is courtesy of the fabulous Paul Settecasse. Design by the equally fabulous Angela Settecasse of Angela Farrell Words • Ideas • Designs. 

Classic Toys | Return of the Retro Robot

Kids in the 1950s and 60s didn’t have computers or smartphones and tablets. The only way they could get in touch with electronic tech is by watching TV shows, talking about space travel or by playing with the coolest new release toys. One of the most desired toys of this era was the toy robot.  

 https://www.facebook.com/TheVintageToyBox/videos/287718362049044/ 

Of course, we are not talking about our modern day sci-fi robots, complete with artificial intelligence, but simple, tin-litho robots with simple wind-up mechanisms.  The first tin toy robot to be made is believed to be the yellow, box-like Robot Lilliput from Japan. Lilliput was always thought to date from the 1930’s, but it is now believed that he was actually made after the war, around the mid-1940’s.

The next robot to make an appearance, was the late 1940's Atomic Robot Man, also born in Japan. This robot was given out as a promotional item at the New York Sci-fi convention in 1950. The box for Atomic Robot Man showed a scene of the robot marching through a decimated city, complete with an atomic mushroom cloud.

Battery operated robots became the next big craze, with the release of the movies Forbidden Planet, introducing Robert the Robot in 1956, The Day the Earth Stood Still in 1952, and finally by the launch of Sputnik in 1957.  Robert the Robot ended up becoming the most re-produced robot ever, now coming in multiple variations including Planet Robot, Robby The Robot or the simpler named Mechanized Robot.

It turns out that these retro toy robots are still one of the most highly desired toys by kids. In the last few years, we have witnessed the increased interest in almost everything retro from clockwork wind-up robots to retro toy cars. Everyone just loves vintage and retro everything! 

With a retro robot, children experience many play related benefits. For instance, they are more physically active, using their imagination to set up whole planets for robot destruction and decimation. Kids can now go a step further, by reenacting their own robot show, for example with Clockwork Soldier’s Robot Puppets. With this amazing craft pack, children can create their own robots; stimulating their creativity too.

When we say retro robots, we just don't mean the robots themselves, we mean every toy that is inspired by this science fiction theme. For instance, the Robot Jigsaw Puzzle is a robot-themed puzzle. This is one of those classic toys that are here to support children’s cognitive development. By finding different pieces of the puzzle, children can create a beautiful image that depicts one of the most well-known robot toys. The toy contains just 24 pieces which means that even small children can finish it in a relatively short period of time.  Of course, this doesn’t mean that the puzzle is not challenging. On the contrary, there are some parts where placing the right pieces can be very tricky indeed!

Space Robots is a retro toy that contains three tin robots, which as the name suggests come from a different planet. Or maybe they were sent to space? In any case, this is one of those toys that promises many hours of fun and entertainment. The robots spin and roll,  changing directions whenever they hit an obstacle.

If you are interested in a classic robot toy, you can’t go wrong with High Wheel Robot. This old-school toy features windup walking and it was inspired by the popular toy from the 1960s of the same name.

Origami is a popular paper folding technique that originates from Japan. If you want to introduce this technique to your children early, you should consider our Spacecraft Robot Origami. This set comes with five nicely illustrated cards and an instruction booklet. With the help of these cards, your kid (with or without your help) can create a unique spacecraft and imagine how space exploration would look like.

Finally, if you want to revive the times that most people have forgotten, then you can check out our Robot Hands Temporary Tattoos, which turn the hands of your children into fun robots. This set comes with 8 unique robot tattoos that are easy to put on and remove and will guarantee hours of imaginative fun and storytelling!

Retro robots are guaranteed to be loved by generations to come, in whichever form they take - a timeless classic and fun for everyone!

School Holidays | Bear Hunts and Pooh Sticks

School holidays can often be a time of great panic and trepidation; what to do; where to go; will we have to re-mortgage the house to pay for it all?? This holiday we decided to remove all the thought processes, and get back to nature ... we went camping!

For those of you who have never been camping with kids, this task on its own may seem mammoth and insurmountable ... but the reality is, all the kids actually need is a tent, a sleeping bag, some food and a water supply; and all you'll need is a never ending supply of wine, a comfy chair, and a good book.  Sound more appealing? 

There's nothing better than a few days in the bush to wash away the stresses of everyday life, and get back to basics. Granted, setting up camp is sure to bring on a sweat, (and an argument or two), but once your simple abode is standing firm, the wine is poured, the snacks are out; then the adventure begins! 

There's no better way to explore your surroundings than going on a family bear hunt; you're going to catch a big one for sure! The kids will love tip-toeing through the bush (stick to the trail path!), listening out for every little sound that might indicate a great big hungry bear is lurking nearby.  Be sure to warn passers-by of the bears up ahead; you'll be surprised how many random strangers join in.  Everybody loves a good story (especially when there is a distinct possibility of a gruesome outcome!). 

Take a picnic and stretch it out; be sure to look out for "treasures" along the way; a stick; a feather; a stone; a leaf ... everything is treasure when you put your imagination hat on.  These special collectibles will also come in mighty handy when you stumble across a stream, particularly one which has a troll bridge; because these 'treasures" magically transform into wondrous pooh sticks on this bridge, ready to win the race! 

Pooh sticks, you may well ask. Yes, pooh sticks, the most captivating game in the wild.  Who's stick will get to the other side first? Who will be hailed the pooh-stick champion?  Guaranteed to take even the most steadfast stickler back in time to a less-complicated childhood. 

Identify as many birds, trees, leaves, insects as you can; taking back to base camp any particularly interesting finds - the kids can draw them later, whilst you relax with that good book and a glass of vino.   Not too many though, or you may be hearing bears in the woods all night! 

Cool toys from back in the day!

Here at the Vintage Toy Box, we think that one of the coolest things about our toys is the fact that as well as being fun and taking you back to your childhood, you can also share them with your own kids and grandkids and let them see how cool the toys were back in the day! Do you look back fondly at the times you spent playing with great toys as a child? If so, you will certainly be inspired to find similarly terrific toys and games for your own kids or grandkids.

Well just for fun, today we are looking at some of the fun toys we offer which would be awesome to introduce to a kid of today.

The first toy we want to talk about is the awesome Slip N Slide Water Slide Toy. Such a simple concept that provides hours and hours of fun on a hot summers day. Our version is based on the variety from the 60’s which is really cool. You will get a kick out of telling the kids and grandkids how this was a big deal back in the day. It is a lot of fun to watch the kids run and slide down this and if you are feeling brave enough, you can have a go yourself!

Next up we have something that is secretly super cool, cheap and will prove to be highly entertaining. The Magic Drawing Slate is the perfect example of an old school vintage style toy, which at first glance many kids will turn their noses up at. Let’s face it, compared to the iPhone; it is a hard sell. But our Magic Drawing Slate has a ton of retro charm and looks like it was transported right out of the 1960’s. All kids are hooked after they do their first drawing. It’s a magical travelling toy that just keeps on giving.

How can you not love the graphics on the box for this retro inspired Tiddly Winks? Now here is a game that even the grumpiest techno addicted kid will have an awesome time with. While the whole style is clearly inspired by games of the 60’s, Tiddly Winks is such a fun, competitive and skill based game that after a couple of turns any kid will be hooked. Not bad for a game that is over 200 years old.  

That is just a small sample of the great toys and games we have here at The Vintage Toy Box. Just about everyone can remember their favourite toys growing up. If you wish to pass that type of joy onto other children in your life, shopping with us will certainly help you on that journey. If you are looking for a toy or game that is not just going to be fun to play, but also lets you share something from your past with your kids, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, then you really can’t go wrong with something from The Vintage Toy Box.

The Ever-Lasting Appeal of Retro Toys

We are living in a world where electronics and technology are present everywhere around us. Our kids are used to playing electronic games, watching TV and using the Internet, iPads and iPhones. Despite this however, kids and parents alike still love retro toys.

Parents love these toys because they invigorate some of their best childhood memories, and take them on a warm, fuzzy trip down memory lane.  Children love them because of their simplistic design and delightful appeal.  If you are still not sure what makes retro toys attractive, keep reading because we will list a few good reasons why your kids should have at least one retro toy in their toy box.

Retro toys come with an ageless charm that has captivated children for generations. They hold a timeless appeal that guarantees that the toys will be loved not only by your kids but also by your grandchildren too and in some cases, their grandkids after that. 

Retro toys are more durable compared to most modern toys. They are usually made from high-quality wood or tin, unlike modern toys that are made of cheap plastic that ends up being thrown away after a few uses. When kids are using these hardy toys, you can be rest assured that they will last for a long time no matter how heavy their use is. In fact, they are designed with durability in mind.  Many modern toy makers, such as Artiwood, Djeco and Londji now also make their toys, games and puzzles with this durability in mind, producing beautiful toys, built to last, and designed to be handed down to the next generation.

In the past, toy manufacturers have paid special attention to the packaging, knowing that the outer appearance of toys is incredibly important to buyers and to children.  Packaging lures children and buyers in, and catches the eye.  Nothing beats a colourful, retro present in a bright, big box. Imagine watching a child’s face light up when they receive a gift with such beautiful packaging.  The colorful packaging will bring a huge smile to little faces everywhere.

As mentioned previously, today’s children often spend countless hours playing video games or watching TV.  Retro toys support the mastering of certain old-fashioned skills that cannot be learned by watching a screen. For example, there are toys that can help kids to learn to build, learn to sew, learn to cook.  Etch-a-sketch toys are good for developing drawing skills. There are gardening toys, toys for creating shelters, toys for using the imagination, putting on a show, and most importantly, toys for developing people skills.

The creative play that retro toys encourage stimulates the imagination, way beyond screen time. By playing with retro toys children can unleash their creativity, something that modern toys don’t allow for in the same way. Creative skills are incredibly important. Buying a few retro toys to add to their toy collection is one of the simplest and most convenient ways to do encourage creativity and imaginative play.

Santa is Coming to the Toy Shop

With only 5 weeks (that's just 34 days!) left until Christmas, the pressure is on to find that perfect gift for your little ones over the festive season. 

We have everything that you need for a wonderfully festive morning - and as our toys are all built to last, you'll find your kids will still be playing with them long past Boxing Day and well into the New Year!  

Check us out in The BEST Christmas Gift Guide EVER over at You Totally Got This - you'll be guaranteed to love our featured DIY toys - we know we do! They're a perfect stocking filler and bound to spread Christmas cheer! 

Traditional Toys from The Vintage Toy Box

We have gifts all children will love,
Inside our magnificent treasure trove,
We have so many aisles to come and explore,
With toys and games and so much more.
 
With so many different kinds of toys, 
For little girls and little boys, 
From circus to rockets and dinosaurs too,
Oh that would be a hullabaloo!

It's the spirit of Christmas we all desire,
A sense of nostalgia that takes us higher,  
Traditional toys are the kind to buy;
So come on in and give them a try.
 
When we compare gifts of our modern day,
With simple toys that are fun to play,
You'll see they last longer than most toys now,
Developing more creativity than time will allow.
 
We want boys and girls to enjoy their toys,
With festive times filled with oodles of joy,
So this year give them delights in their socks,
And get your toys at The Vintage Toy Box!

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Classic Toys | Tin Toys - A Step Back Through Time

Some of the most collectible toys in the world are old tin toys. Tin toys are made out of tinplate and often motorised and colourfully painted to resemble characters or vehicles, such as toy trains, cars, and other motorised vehicles.

Many of the early tinplate toy makers were based in Germany with companies such as Bing & Schoenner and Issmayer being leaders in their industry in the 1860s through to the early 1900s.

Germany remained the major producer of tin toys into the early 20th century. The most famous manufacturer being Ernst Paul Lehmann, who produced such wonderful tin toys in Brandenberg, Germany from the 1880s to the 1930s.  Lehmann today has a worldwide following of avid Lehmann tin toy collectors who often collaborate to track down rare toys from his vast collection.

France and England soon jumped onto the production of these popular toys, leading to a surge in what would become known as the “Penny Toy”, with thousands of tin toys flooding the market.

Production of tin toys in the United States only boomed much later, and it wasn’t until after World War I, when consumers were less enthusiastic about buying German products that the US found its way. Production soon however overtook that of their European counterparts, with cheap & plentiful resources contributing towards more favourable manufacturing costs.

Louis Marx & Company was the largest American tin toy manufacturer during this era, operating from 1919 to 1978. Marx produced a huge number of tin toy designs, producing enormous amounts to keep prices down. The company produced so many designs that the toys themselves were often imprinted with the slogan, "One of the many Marx toys, have you all of them?".  Toys included tinplate buildings, tin toys, tin soldiers, play sets, toy dinosaurs, mechanical toys, toy guns, action figures, dolls, doll houses, toy cars and trucks, and trains.

Due to the re-allocation of resources, the production of tin toys ceased during World War II, and many toy manufacturing factories were taken over for arms and munitions manufacture. Many shut down permanently and never went back into business after the war.  Japan began producing enormous number of tin toys, and due to reduced competition in Europe soon became the world leader in tin toy manufacturing.  

TOYS & GAMES DURING WORLD WAR II

Toys and games have always reflected the attitudes, humour, and imagination of the culture and times that created them.

As toy historians Athelstan and Kathleen Spilhaus wrote, "A toy's appeal lies in the form and shape, the beauty of line, the colour and detail, the charm of miniaturization, and the humour of caricature. Some toys amuse us with their jerky antics; others add beauty to our lives with their grace and rhythm. Many do things we can't do in real life, thereby keeping us in touch with fantasy."

During WW2, children played many different games, both in groups and individually. Children commonly played Hopscotch, Four Square, Jump Rope, Chess etc. together, as well as all types of ball games.  Young children loved to play jacks, marbles, play school and house, and played with cars or dolls. Kids in the neighbourhood loved playing games out on the street such as, "Red, Light, Green, Light", "Red Rover", "Hide and Seek", "Statutes" and many other games.

Board games were popular like Monopoly, Scrabble, Life, Checkers, Chess, Backgammon, Chinese Checkers, and Dominoes. Cards were a really big hit - Fish, Concentration, Crazy Eights, Hearts, and if old enough, Canasta, Gin Rummy, Solitaire, Slap Jack, War and 21. There were also games played in the water such as Marco Polo, dive bomb and water ballet. Children played for hours because they did not have video games or television. More often than not they made up their own games too. 

In the evening children played cards, Chutes and Ladders (which is similar to Snakes and Ladders), Candy Land and Checkers. The boys enjoyed playing with army figures and the girls on the other hand liked the brand new Barbie doll. During the war, families were short of money so only the rich children had toys. Other children may have had a football and maybe if lucky, a couple of marbles.

Life wasn't all fun and games though, children still had to go to school, though some schools moved from the towns to the country. As well as ordinary lessons children learned air raid drills, leaving classrooms when the sirens sounded to go to air raid shelters. To raise money for the 'war effort', schools started 'Spitfire Funds' and National Savings Groups. More than 6,000 school savings groups started in 1940. Children saved money each week, instead of spending their pocket money on toys.

Most children left school at 14 (in 1944 the school leaving age was raised to 15). From school, most young people went to work. Only a few went to university. They could join the forces in 16. At 18 most young people knew they would be 'called up' (conscripted) for the Forces or for war work in factories, farms or coal mines. In 1945 German boys as young as 10 and 11 took part in fighting during the last weeks of the war.

At home, children listened to the radio. For many, their favourite programme was the teatime 'Children's Hour'. Children listened to music and comedy shows too, though perhaps not to the 'Radio Doctor' telling people how to stay healthy. People played records on a gramophone. Records in those days were black shiny discs, easily broken. At the cinema ('the pictures') you usually saw two films, or a cartoon and a film. There were Saturday morning film clubs for children.

Many toy factories were now making guns or plane parts or other war equipment, so there was a shortage of new toys. Children swapped old toys at 'toy-exchanges'. Many wartime toys were made of paper or card, because rubber, plastics, wood and metal were needed for the war. Lots of toys had a war theme. There were toy planes, toy tanks and toy battleships to float in the bath, there were books such as the 'ABC of Airplane Spotting', card games with pictures of soldiers and sailors, and a darts game with a picture of Hitler as the bull’s-eye to throw at.

Most children though made their own toys. Many children played with a small motorbike wheel, and a stick, holding races along the streets. They also made their own trolleys with pram wheels which they used to run in the streets, which were fairly safe back then as there was so little traffic. Most of the children used to collect soldiers & cap badges, the German ones were the most popular.

Toy manufacturers had to come up with creative ways to continue production. Paper dolls, puzzles, and games increased in popularity thanks to their widespread availability. Toys, board games, and hobby sets with military and war motifs also became standard playthings. Ingenuity developed out of necessity. For example, Lionel Corporation, famous for its trains, produced military items such as compasses during the war. However, in an effort to stay connected with its toy customers, Lionel created the Wartime Freight Train made entirely out of heavy-duty paper stock. It wasn’t the same as a Lionel electric train, but it was the best the company could offer under these circumstances.

The outbreak of World War II not only stumped the European toy industry, but also that in America.  US metal was rationed and toys were placed on a list of unnecessary goods. A number of manufacturers including Daisy Outdoor Products and the Smethport Specialty Company were suddenly prohibited from making play items from their factories.  Many toy companies were forced out of business. Others were retooled and enlisted by the government.  Buddy “L” Hubley, Strombecker and the Louis Marx Company were among many large American companies that went from making children’s products to military supplies during the 1940s, and many, sadly, never found their way back.