A Bristol man is preparing to sell more than 100 vintage toy trucks after spending 70 years building a collection that is expected to raise approximately £20,000 at auction.
Phil Smart developed an interest in miniature mechanical vehicles when he was eight years old during a family visit to London in the 1950s. He spotted a James Shackleton & Sons lorry displayed in a toy shop window and became interested in the model.
Unable to afford the expensive toy at the time, he saved his pocket money until he could purchase a second-hand version. That acquisition marked the beginning of a collecting hobby that continued for seven decades.
More Than 100 Models Included in the Collection
Smart’s collection features more than 100 models, ranging from early tinplate toys and limited editions to customised vehicles.
Many of the Shackleton models feature detailed mechanical components that can be dismantled and reassembled using miniature tools. Smart said the ability to take the vehicles apart, replace parts and rebuild them was an important part of the enjoyment.
The models differ from more familiar toy brands such as Dinky and Corgi because of their intricate mechanical features.
Rare Alfa Romeo Model Among Auction Highlights
One of the most valuable items is an early 1930s clockwork Alfa Romeo P2 produced by French manufacturer CIJ.
The model measures more than half a metre in length and features rack-and-pinion steering, rubber tyres and a removable driver. It is expected to sell for more than £3,000.
The original Alfa Romeo P2 racing car won the 1925 French Grand Prix.
Another notable item is Smart’s customised Shackleton Foden lorry, which has been converted into a recovery truck. The vehicle is estimated to sell for more than £100, while another model could achieve a price exceeding £200.
Auctioneer Highlights Collection’s History
Andrew Stowe, an auctioneer at Auctioneum in Bristol, described the collection as a “life-long passion project”.
He said the models provide an insight into the luxury toy market during the period in which they were produced.
The collection includes vintage mechanical toys and specially made pieces accumulated by Smart over his decades of collecting.
Online Auction Expected to Raise £20,000
The entire collection will be offered in an online auction scheduled to end on Monday, November 30.
Auctioneum expects the sale to generate around £20,000.
After seven decades of collecting, Smart is now preparing to part with the models, giving prospective buyers an opportunity to acquire pieces from his extensive vintage toy collection.
