Part 99

From Zeitschrift, March 2007

Plastic Toys models and in particular VW models were in abundance during the 1970's, and the types of plastics also varied from Bakelite and Amloid brands, to rubber based plastics

The following image is of a green/blue kombi, which is a 1/43rd model, which appears to be made from Bakelite. This form of plastic is well known also for Bakelite radios, commonly called at the time a 'wireless' these were made in the 50's & 60's in various colours.

By the way Bakelite is a form of synthetic resin chemically formulated and named after Belgian inventor & chemist LH Baekeland (pronounced Bay Ka Lite) in 1909.

This model is quite unique and rare because it also contains plastic figures of people these include a driver, an adult passenger, child and even a dog in the front seat! The rear lid also opens to show the engine and a spare tyre.

The Bakelite plastic looks similar to jade in some cases and would almost certainly fracture if dropped from a reasonable height.

Some other variations of this model can also be seen with clear plastic tops but only has a driver.

Another popular plastic is the Amloid plastic, a much durable plastic and has flexible properties. This green Beetle with driver is good example.

This type 3 sedan, a red Kombi Pick up, a Karmann Ghia, and a Golf are also rare finds and made of similar plastics.

New things to look out for this month is the new five pack Matchbox sets which include a yellow kombi van and aqua coloured beetle.

Also I have had some requests for Herbie beetle's and I am told that Terry at Past & Present Model Cars has received a stock of 1/18 scale Luv Bugs. He is even known to have the odd Bay Window bus in stock. You can reach Terry at ppmc@kooee.com.au

Tony Bezzina
Kbezzina@bigond.com.au

Part 98

From Zeitschrift, February 2007

Just when we thought we were on top of the latest Jada series, it seems that the V dubs series is set to expand further in the VW Type 3 range.

You have got to give it to Jada, they have exceeded themselves to keep us all very happy.

Keep an eye out for these detailed Type 3 variations including the Wagon and fast back in 1/24 scale and in a range of colours. They have not been released yet but I am told they should be in the next 3 months, or alternatively on e bay.

	The type 3 wagon with surf board is my favourite as it represents another version of the Aussie surf scene of the '70s & 80's.
	Also the new "ratty" look VW's are now available. The "ratty" scene has become very big in the US where car enthusiasts pour lots of money into new interiors, such as trim, sound, and lots of alloy but retain the "ratty look" features of the car. Some enthusiasts have even been known to air brush fake rust and imperfections to give them the real "ratty" look.

The following images are of a 1/24 Samba bus, Kombi dual cab, & "For Sale" beetle. Other 1/24 Buses to look out for this season are this metallic green bus with white wall tyres and blue surf bus with surf board
Other variations including Karmann Ghia & Thing featured in last months edition in 1/66 scale are also going to be available in 1/24 scale
	Finally I am not sure about this last variation to the Jada range, which appears to be a double axle long wheel base split window slide bed (flat top) it's going a bit too far in my opinion, but maybe I'll just get one of the 4 colour variations.

Tony Bezzina
kbezzina@bigpond.com.au

Part 97

From Zeitschrift, January 2007

Hello and welcome to another New Year! I hope that all you who share this interest and hobby were showered with gifts of the model car variety during the Christmas season.

This month I have continued with the Jada series as they have gone to some extreme effort to please us VW supporters.

		Wave two Panel van kombis in purple & black over tan should be getting around now.
		Also the following yet to released in Australia range speak for them selves but as you can see Jada have released a new wave called the V Dub series wave 2.

In particular are the ratty “for sale” range which are real hot in the US with real life VW’s and as recently seen about the VW scene here in Australia.

Other VW Kombis in blue and black over red with surf boards are also a must.

		Jada has catered here for all VW fans, including Karmann Ghia, VW Hebmuller cabriolet, & VW Thing all with surf boards and in 1/64 scale.

These are just the tip of the iceberg and next month we will feature the rest of the range in 1/24 scale including some odd looking long wheel base & double axle kombis.

Cheers for now
Tony Bezzina

Part 96

From Zeitschrift, December 2006

Well the end of the year is upon us and I hope that you receive many a VW related gift this coming festive season.

	We finish off the year with some more images of the expanding Jada Dub City range. Firstly this set of cool 1/24 beetles. You will notice with particular attention the detail in these models, like the venetian blinds in the rear windows and drivers side window air scoop.
	Also these kombis with surf boards or luggage racks, there are 4 of each variation and a total of 6 colour schemes. Expect to pay between $35- $45. These 1/66 scale buses also make great stocking fillers as is this also Jada chrome variation in 1/66 scale a must.
	Finally this great looking bay pick up by Kovap in John Deere livery including the John Deere ride-on makes a great combo. Anyway as the images speak for themselves I leave you and until next year, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Tony Bezzina

Part 95

From Zeitschrift, November 2006

As we come into the home stretch for 2006 and as you read this, there may only be 5 weeks to go before Christmas, so start dropping hints.

The ‘70s was a time when plastic model cars, known as toys back then, were being produced in mass and they mainly came from Hong Kong. 

The following is an example of a clear plastic variety of Beetle that came in some very bright colours as did the colour combinations. The Beetle in the background is an old playart diecast model from the late ‘70s as well.

The next model is a kombi bus from the similar era and also made in Hong Kong. I love the bright see-through colours. This model is about 1/40 scale and I have been looking for it for years. The other colour combination was a blue and orange. The inscription underneath it reads “CH No 605 made in Hong Kong”.

It is a friction-powered model as most were in those days. Unfortunately, the friction mechanism is located at the axle. (So it’s a front wheel drive) It looks a bit like a stretch limousine and in fact has the 3 bench seats and the rear luggage door opens up. It’s also a 25 window bus!

Also rare again is to find such models to include a driver or passengers. I recently came across this tin Type 3 Fastback on eBay. Rare and unique, as it is a wind up version. It could be a Bandai made in China. Anyway, that’s all from me this month.

Tony Bezzina
kbezzina@bigpond.com

Part 94

From Zeitschrift, October 2006

Welcome to the Toy Department. This is a special edition as we are celebrating the 100th edition of the Toy Department this month!

Who would have though, if not for the support and enthusiasm of club members that something that started in 1998 would continue to grow to this day.

Special thanks this month to Steve Carter our webmaster for his time and patience over the past 8 years in facilitating the Toy Dept on our club web site, here you can access all editions in full colour.

I recall in the early days before e mail (for me any way) when this feature was hand written and photographs were sent by snail mail… remember floppy discs!

Thank you also for your contributions and look forward to sharing future stories with you all.

This month I have featured the Jada range of kombis and Beetles. Whilst these models are an unusual scale they have a fresh cal look about them which their distinctive chrome wheels.

In the 1/60 scale there are the wave two versions of kombi Pick ups in metallic blue and two tone yellow.

The beetles also have good detail in blue and red.

The recently released 1/24 scale pick up are a must, this scale is much better in my opinion than the 1/25 scale Masito versions.

These come with either surf boards or luggage racks and safari windows and come in a variety of 8 colours.

For further details and availability call Steve from Mobile Model Cars who are sponsors of our club.

I the meantime the Matchbox Kombi illustrated here which is number 31 have just hit the pegs at your local stockist.

Tony Bezzina

Part 93

From Zeitschrift, September 2006

Hello again from the Toy Department!

The following scale models are just some examples of kombis at their best, which is at work!

	The first two are 1/43 scale fire trucks made by Schuco. These are probably the best detailed VW fire trucks that I have seen so far. Particular attention by this reputable brand can be seen by the detail in the extension ladder and spotlight, not to mention the detailed chassis.
	The next model has a familiar extension hoist on its rear, very much in line with the Husky range.

This model is in1/43 scale and made of plastic. This rare model is friction powered and made by "Lucky" in Hong Kong.

These models are not only highly sought by VW enthusiasts but also by those who collect fire engine models and memorabilia.

	The blue kombi tow truck is also very unusual and in approximately 1/56 scale. Also made in Hong Kong. Other similar relatives to this range include a cement mixer, conveyer, tipper, and extendable hoist.
	The green Kombi bay is my favourite, being the vacation holiday version, made in Hong Kong in the early '70s.

Lastly this is a modification to the recently released Hot Wheels "Qombee" pronounced KOMBI. Someone no doubt has been busy out the back shed.

Tony Bezzina

Part 92

From Zeitschrift, August 2006

Hello all, the Toy Department was recently contacted by club member Hayden Muller who has sent in these images of some unusual kombi models.

	As you can see these are of the plastic variety and, and look very basic. One you will notice is also motorised by a pull cord and fuel action mechanism. The inscription underneath reads "Hawk Model Co made in USA 1972"
	These models go back some 30 years and further. The smaller version we are told at one time was selling at K Mart for $2.00.

This next image shows some including a pick up version recently selling on the internet for $40US each! Obviously a good purchase at the time Hayden, I think your investment has paid off here considerably.

This month I thought we would also feature some Karmann Ghia's from various sources and brands.

Any way that's all for now and if anyone also wishes to share part of their collection with us here at the Toy Department you can get me on kbezzina@bigpond.com

Cheers, Tony Bezzina

Part 91

From Zeitschrift, July 2006

Hello all, plastic being the theme again this month, I thought I would share these recent acquisitions of Beetle and Kombi models.

These rare examples date back to at least the 1970s and usually have some form of inscription on their base plates, but as you will read these don’t, although a good guess would be that they are made in Hong Kong.

	The first is a white police beetle, it is friction powered with no inscription.
	The second is also a police beetle, but rare in that it is a wind up version, this is rare to find in plastic as most of the wind up’s are of the tin variety. The model is unique as it also emits a siren sound, which is great when you consider that it does not operate with batteries. This model has a bump and go action, again no inscription on this one.

My favourite would be this bay window plastic van, in approximately 1/43 scale. It is friction powered and made in Hong Kong.

The model has now found its place in my cabinet with its sister camper kombi.

Last but not least I hope most of you where successful in getting hold of Filmore the Kombi from the Cars movie, recently distributed by McDonalds in their happy meals. How many happy meals did you consume?

Tony Bezzina