Toy Soldier Collector Magazine

68 PAGES OF TOY SOLDIERS | IN-DEPTH FEATURES | COMPETITION | SHOW DATES

Dec/Jan 2008 | Issue 19 | £4.50 TOY SOLDIER www.toysoldiercollector.com COLLECTOR WE’RE AS SERIOUS ABOUT COLLECTING AS YOU ARE

Heritage Miniatures WIN Zulu War sets by Making the Streets of New WWI Cavalry Frontline Figures Old Hong Kong

GODS OF OVER 85 WAR new FIGURES/SETS Russian Vityaz REVIEWED Roman elephant

EVERY ISSUE: NEW METAL | PLASTICS | CASTINGS PLUS: NEWS | HISTORY | READERS LETTERS Please pre-order this piece from your local retailer to avoid disappointment

17869 – A complete British Royal Field Artillery Limber with 18 Available Pound Gun that includes Gun, Limber, Six Horses, Two February 2008 Outriders and Two Limber Riders. This 11 Piece Set is strictly LIMITED TO 450 SETS WORLDWIDE.

These ﬁgures are 54mm (2.25") Tall Matte Connoisseur Finish For more information on the new World War I releases and to find Metal Military Miniatures. Use this stunning piece with the a retailer near you please contact W. Britain at: extensive W. Britain World War I collection that includes British From the UK, Ireland and Continental Europe From the United States, Canada, Central and South America infantry, highlanders and cavalry, as well as French infantry and W. Britain Ltd. at: First Gear / W. Britain Consumer Services Department at: Wireless Hill Industrial Estate • South Luffenham P.O. Box 52 • Peosta, Iowa 52068-0052 German infantry and cavalry. Oakham • Rutland • LE15 8NF • United Kingdom Toll Free: (888) 771-5576 or (563) 582-2071 Tel: (0) 1780 721723 • Fax: (0) 1780 729513 Fax: (563) 582-2415 Email: [email protected] • Website: www.wbritain.com Email: [email protected] • Website: www.wbritain.com

4 ...... NOTICEBOARD 8 ...... THE GIVEAWAY Win new Zulu War sets from Frontline Figures 10 .....NEW RELEASES PART 1 17 ..... CHARGE! Rob Hendrie inspects Heritage Miniatures new WWI cavalry 22 .....LIFE ON THE STREET 27 ..... SKINNER’S SOLDIERS Canadian writer and collector Guy Elliott talks about his passion for fi gures from The Scottish Toy Soldier Company 30 ..... CASTING AROUND 36 .....THE JEWEL IN THE CROWN The third and fi nal installment in Martin Ainscough’s series on fi gures that represent the British army in India 41 ..... SIX 42 .....THE MACGREGOR GENTLEMAN TOY SOLDIER 43 ..... SHOW DATES 44 ..... FANTASTIC PLASTICS 50. ....RP OPEN DAY COLLECTOR 52 .....REBUILDING HONG KONG Editor: Mark Avery Australian modeller Geoff Barnes gives some Advertising: Regis Auckland ([email protected]) advice on building a civilian themed diorama Contributors: Andy Whittaker, Mike Blake, Martin Ainscough, Rob 56.... CONSUMING ISSUES Hendrie, Paul Stocker, Geoff Barnes, Guy Elliott and Gerry McQueen. Design: Dark Star Media Ltd (www.darkmedialtd.com) 58.... NEW RELEASES PART 2 Printing: Regal Litho (www.regallitho.co.uk) 66.... FINAL WORD Toy Soldier Collector is published bi-monthly by: Guideline Publications, Unit 3 Enigma Building, Bilton Road, Denbigh East, Bletchley, Buckinghamshire, MK1 1HW Tel: 01908 274433 Fax: 01908 270614 Email: Jennifer Henry on [email protected] Subscription rates: UK £25, Europe £34, USA £32, Canada £34, ROW £40 (all prices include shipping and postage)

www.toysoldiercollector.com Front cover: Armoured Roman elephant by Russian Vityaz Toy Soldier Collector ISSN 1745-5804

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden but may be granted Please direct all purchasing, editorial and subscription enquiries to Jennifer Henry at our upon application to Guideline Publications. All submissions to Toy Soldier Collector and head ofﬁ ce: welcomed and we will do our best to return these to you free of charge, however to Guideline Publications guarantee return please include a stamped addresses envelope. All submissions should Unit 3 Enigma Building, Bilton Road, Denbigh East, Blethcley, Buckinghamshire, MK1 1HW be mailed to the main Guideline ofﬁ ce address as listed above. Copyright of published articles will belong to Toy Soldier Collector unless a prior agreement is reached. Toy Tel: 01908 274433 Fax: 01908 270614 Soldier Collector can accept no responsibility for lost or damaged submissions. Email: [email protected] www.guidelinepublications.co.uk

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 3 EDITORIAL & NEWS Welcome... TSC! in twomonthsforissue20of your support,andjoinAndy tion andnewssections. features suchasourcompeti- new, facesaswellregular from somefamiliar, andsome are lotsofspecialarticles atures. Ontopofthisthere WWI rangebyHeritageMini- gives aninsightintothenew some NewReleasesbutalso Rob Hendrienotonlycovers and castingssection,plus are herewiththeirplastics Mike BlakeandPaul Stocker the teamregularfacesof leases partsoneandtwo. Rob HendrietocoverNewRe- starts thisissuebyjoining in hisnewrole.InfactAndy join meinwishingAndywell utor, andsoIhopeyouwillall editor andinfrequentcontrib- zine, althoughonlyasasub- to beinvolvedinthemaga- lenge ofTSC.Iwillcontinue ward totakingonthechal- a decadeandislookingfor- the toysoldierhobbyforover myself, hasbeeninvolvedin Andy,to takeitforwards. like magazine hasthebestperson the mantleofeditorIfeel with Andywillingtotakeon a short-termbasis,andnow planned tohelpoutTSCon my newbaby, Ihadonlyever with otherprojects,including sue. Duetomycommitments manent editorfromnextis- will officiallytakeoverasper- in thelast10ormoreyears, magazine andmanyothers has workedwithmeonthis friend AndyWhittaker, who issue 20onwards.Mygood new permanenteditorfrom the magazinewillhavea pleased tobeablesaythat temporarily andI’mnowvery ‘filling in’ aseditorofTSC troduction lastissueIwas rope andtheUSA! numerous outletsacrossEu- all overtheUK,aswellvia the firsttimeinnewsagents discovering themagazinefor sands ofnewreaderswhoare special welcometoourthou- favourite magazine,anda to thelatestissueofyour 4 Editor Mark Avery Enjoy theissue,thanksfor In additiontoAndyjoining As Imentionedinmyin- TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR NOTICEBOARD The latest news from the global toy soldier hobby in Porthmadog. to callattheshopwhichiseasyfindonmainstreet village wherecult1960sTVseriesThePrisoner wasmade) of Britain,(SnowdoniaisonthedoorstepasPortmeirion [email protected].” The newemailaddressfortheshopis change soonfromAlmaFigures toPorthmadog Models. as wellkitsandmodels.Theshopwillhaveaname edd sellingprofessionallypaintedplastic54mmfigures concentrate onourspecialistshopinPorthmadog, Gwyn- explained. “Butwearestill‘outthere’becausenowcan shows duetohealthreasonsitseemedlogical,”Mike all stock,moulds,masters,sparesandpaintedfigures. work butlifemoveson,”saidMike.Thesalewillinclude isasadmomentforusaftersomuch Auctioneers. “This known andhighly-rated CrimeanWar rangeviaVectis Mike EastonhasdecidedtosellAlmaFigures -the well- For sale: Dave is one of the nicest chaps you can run into in our little Dave isoneof thenicestchapsyoucanrun intoinourlittle McKenna. AsI’ve mentionedinthepast thismagazine the annualBirminghamToy andFigure Show runbyDave ham (orEdgbastontobemore precise)asitwasthedayof Sunday October28,2007,was thedaytobeinBirming- show success Birmingham reasons behindthedecision. the companyhasbeenavailableforcommentasto (www.soldierpac.com) although currentlynobodyfrom been placedontheSoldierPac website of recastpartsforantiquefigures.Anannouncementhas Paul StockerthatSoldierPac haveceasedsellingitsrange News comesinthisissuefromresidentcastingsexpert cease Pacrecasts Soldier eer.com orcontactDanielAgnewon02078708124. The Toy Auctioneer areholdingvisitwww.thetoyauction- onSeptember13,2008. Figure Show’ will runalongsideNorman’s annual‘Old Toy Soldierand Toy firsttoysoldierandfiguresalewhich Auctioneer’s assist Danielandtherestofteaminorganising the had sinceworkingtogetheratChristies.Normanwill cementing an18yearworkingrelationshipthetwohave forces withDirectorofTheToy Auctioneer DanielAgnew of USbasedmagazineOldToy Soldier. Normanwilljoin for thevariousauctioneersheisalsoeditor-in-chief ties afewyearsago. famous ‘MalcolmForbes’ collection auctionedbyChris- auctions andauctionhousesovertheyearsincluding cation in2008.Normanhasalsobeeninvolvedwithmany and Traditional MetalModels1972-2007’isdueforpubli- soldiers, thelatestofwhich‘BritainsNewToy Soldiers consultant. Normanisbestknownforhisbooksontoy specialist onlineauctionhouseTheToy Auctioneer as a Toy soldierexpertNormanJoplinhasrecentlyjoined Joplin’s newNorman role Mike invites readers who holiday in this spectacular part Mike invitesreaderswhoholidayinthisspectacularpart “It wasadifficultdecisionbutaswenolongerattend For furtherinformationonthis event,orotherauctions In additiontoNorman’s bookandconsultancywork Alma Figures Alma

hobby and he always organises a great show at the regular Morgan Miniatures website venue of the Clarendon Suites just outside Birmingham’s Last issue the magazine covered some new Aztecs by city centre. Welsh-based Morgan Miniatures. Gareth Morgan, owner NEWS This year’s event was no different to previous years, it of the company, has since been in touch to say the figures was well organised by Dave and the team, and every col- are now all available by from the company’s new website lector and dealer there had a smile on their face. I believe www.morganminiatures.homestead.com and also from it was the biggest show they’ve ever had with both num- the three London shows each year, as well as a limited bers of traders and collectors up on previous years. Next selection being available at the Chicago show next year. year’s show is already being organised so mark Sunday October 26, 2008, in your diary now and watch the pages of this magazine for further details nearer the time. King & Country news Any traders or collectors wanting further information on Some interesting news came in via Mike Neville of K&C next year’s event contact Dave direct on 0121 628 1397 or UK this issue. Firstly K&C’s special Christmas set XM007- email: [email protected]. 01 ‘Christmas Truce 1914’ has completely sold out within the UK, there’s a possibility some sets are still available outside of the UK but for any fans of the K&C Christmas W. Britain news specials then you may have to hunt around to find one of Two bits of news from W. Britain this month. Firstly the this year’s sets! company’s annual event, which will have taken place by In addition Mike also passed on information on the new the time you read this, was a complete sell out this year. In ‘Operation Market Garden’ range. This new collection is the past the events held at the National Army Museum and the Guards Museum in London have attracted around 100 people, this year’s event again at the Guards Museum sold out with all 300 tickets being snapped up a few weeks in advance of the event. Other news from W. Britain concerns the company’s return to the Zulu Wars. Just released is a new leaflet detail- ing the first batch of Zulu sets which will start becoming available to collectors in early 2008.

CONTACT: W. Britain Ltd. Wireless Hill Industrial Estate South Luffenham Oakham, Rutland LE15 8NF Tel: 01780 721723

www.wbritain.com ‘Christmas Truce 1914’ by King & Country has already sold out in the UK

Just some of the new Zulu ﬁ gures about to be released by W. Britain

6 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR CONTACT: King & Country UK Unit 17, Enterprise City ‘Airborne JeepJeep & Trailer’Trailer’ ((MG002)MG002) from KKinging & Country’sCountry’s new OOperationperation Meadowfield Avenue Market GardenGarden range £119.95£119.95 Green Lane Industrial Estate Spennymoor County Durham DL16 6JF due to arrive in the hobby in December, hopefully just in Tel: 01388 818882 time for Christmas, and will initially feature seven releases Fax: 01388 814407 including the pictured Airborne jeep and trailer set. www.kingandcountry.co.uk News for plastic collectors from Mike Blake

Plastic Warrior reference booklets pared to what customers want to pay, always a bit of a As well as the bi-monthly magazine, Plastic Warrior balancing act. The sample painted figures he sent in to produces much needed reference material on older me are ACW Iron Brigade, and are nicely done. They are plastic toy soldiers. There are checklists and specials painted using Vallejo Game Color acrylic paints and cost on ‘Timpo Solid Figures’, ‘Lone Star’, ‘Charbens’, ‘Cres- £20.01 (why the odd 1p I have no idea!) for a set of 4, in cent’, ‘Cherilea & Britains Swoppets’ and a ‘Johillco other words £5 each. Special’, ‘Kentoys’, ‘Gemodels’, ‘Lone Star Modern Army Vehicles’, ‘Malleable Mouldings’, ‘Airfix-The Early Days’, ‘Britains "Eyes Right"’, ‘The PW Guide to UK Makers of Plastic Toy Figures’, and ‘Off With Their Heads! - A Con- verter's Guide’, at between £3 and £5 each, post free in the UK, just £1 abroad. They also do the best book ever written about plastic toy soldiers, ‘Suspended Animation – An Unauthorised History of Herald & Britains Plastic Figures’, second revised and expanded edition. The book is around £20. CONTACT: Plastic Warrior A Call To Arms ACW Iron Brigade painted ﬁ gures from Drum & Flag 65 Walton Court Woking Conté Collectibles news Surrey Not yet available, but unveiled at the Chicago show GU21 5EE were the upcoming plastic Spartans. These look like Tel: 01483 722778 they are going to be real mind blowers. Not only are they www.plasticwarrior.com fantastic figures, but Richard Conté has conceived of a way to give them articulated arms, wrists, necks and in many cases, forearms. The result is that the pose can Drum & Flag painted ﬁ gures be adjusted in many ways. As the arms and heads and Rupert Mitchell, of Drum & Flag, tells me that he is in the hands are interchangeable this means almost infinite process of setting up another website to compliment his variety is possible. The potential for other ranges with eBay presence. This is www.drumandflag.com, which this technology is staggering, ‘conversions’ will almost he aims to grow as an online shop selling hand painted become too easy! 1/32 plastics. He is populating it with A Call to Arms sets Unfortunately no images were available to print at the initially, as he works his way through their entire set of time of writing although there are some available on the releases. He recognises the difficulty of charging a price Conte website (www.conteco.com) and also Steve Wes-

that reflects the time involved in the production, com- ton’s UK website (www.plasticsoldiers.co.uk). END

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 7 Sets WZW1(top) and WZW2 (bottom) from Frontline Figures COMPETITION Frontline Figures

ecently a rather large box of figures arrived How many Victoria Crosses Rfrom Gerard Prime of FrontlineFr Figures in Hong were awarded to the men Kong.Ko In this box were Q who fought at Rorke’s Drift? numerousnu new releases for Frontline’sFr new French and THE GIVEAWAY THE IndianIn Wars range as well Please send your answers which is on sale February 1, on a postcard or stuck-down asas two new wagons for its envelope marked TSC Issue 19 2008. The judges’ decision ZuluZu series. All of these sets Competition to: is final, and no substitute arear reviewed later on in this Guideline Publications prize or cash alternative is issue,iss but read on now to Unit 3 Enigma Building available. findfin out how you could be Bilton Road theth proud owner of one of Denbigh East Previous winner Blethcley theth Zulu ox wagon sets. Our congratulations this Buckinghamshire The sets available to win MK1 1HW issue go to Mr B Mayo of arear an ox wagon which Chelmsford, Essex, UK includesin two Zulus fighting who was the lucky win- withwi two 24th Foot (WZW1) answer to our question. ner of the three sets which andan an ox wagon with four Please also state on the were kindly donated by 24th24 Foot firing and loading postcard which set you the East of India Com- (WZW2).(W Each of these sets would prefer to win, either pany as the prize for ‘The retailsre for £73/$108 so an WZW1 or WZW2. Giveaway’ in issue 18. The extremelyex good prize. All entries must be answer to the question we To stand a chance of received by January 7, 2008 posed (What is the name addingad either of these sets to be entered into the draw of the author of the original toto your collection then you which will take place on ‘300’ comic on which the needne to enter the competi- January 8, 2008. The winner movie released earlier this tion,tio and to do that all you will be announced in issue year was based?) was of haveha to do is tell us the 20 of Toy Soldier Collector course Frank Miller. END

8 Alexanders Toy Soldiers The East of India Company 54mm Soldier and Civilians Presents Many ranges and eras Made and Painted in the UK Persian Heavy 14 Constance Road Whiton, Twickenham Middlesex TW2 7HY Cavalry Phone/Fax: 020 8867 2664 Email: ThisThis PPersianersia heavy [email protected] horsemanhorseeman is a member of CyrusCyruss the Younger’s Secure web ordering at: www.ats-uk.net bodyguardbodyguard and thus the elite of ttheh Persian army. HisHis cclothingclothin shows several MILITARY WEAPONS, HARDWARE AND UNIFORMS GGreekreek influences:influe The bronze OFFICERS AND THE FRENCH ARMY hhelmetelmet is decorateddeecora with a plume SOLDIERS OF THE IN THE FIRST WORLD mmadeade of hhorsehair,orseha and he is FRENCH HUSSARS WAR TO BATTLE wwearingearing a linenlinen jjacket reinforced 2. FROM THE 1ST 1914. UNIFORMS, wwithith bronbronzezee plates,plat just like the TO THE 8TH ARMAMENT, REGIMENT 1804- EQUIPMENT (VOL.1) GGreekreek cuicuirass.raass. ForFo details of our 1812 A Jouineau Laurent Mirouze, new cavalcavalryry figfigures and the rest Softback, 82 S Dekerle, Hardback, of our AncientAncie Collection pages, colour 528 pages, with pleaseplease visitvisit our website illustrations and 1000 colour photos ((detailsdetails below)below or contact diagrams throughout £12.50 and illustrations £70.00 yyourourr locallocal dealerdealer.d Just two books from a huge range at the HeadHeadO Office:ffice: ThTheeE Eastast of InIndiadia Tel (852) 2552 2951. 2951 MILITARY BOOK CENTRE Company Ltd. Fax (USA Number) 1 509 351 3963. 25th Floor, Unit A, Gee Chang Email: [email protected] www.militarybookcentre.com Hong Centre, T: 0845 260 4413 E: [email protected] 65 Wong Chuk Hang Road, View our complete catalogue at Aberdeen, Hong Kong. WWW.EASTOFINDIA.COM PO. Box 4413, Atherstone, Warwickshire CV9 2AS. UK. Tradition Traditional Style Toy Soldiers for Collectors

Set no: 700SE1 Set no: 700SE2 Light Company, Westphalia Regiment c.1812 Voltigeur Company, 1st Swiss Regiment c.1812 An Officer, Cornet and six Privates An Officer, Cornet and six Privates Price: £82.50 Price: £82.50 Special limited editions of only 75 sets Tradition Toy Soldier Catalogue £4.00 including postage in U.K., £4.75 Europe, £6.00 Rest of the World Tradition of London Limited . 5A Shepherd Street . Mayfair . London W1J 7HW . England Telephone: 020 7493 7452 Fax: 020 7355 1224 Email: [email protected] Visit our website: www.traditionoflondon.com Shop hours: Monday to Friday 9.00-5.30, Saturday 9.30-4.30 Visa and Access accepted - When ordering by mail please add postage - Please allow 28 days delivery in UK

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 9 REVIEWS 10 10 NEW RELEASES  ONE Guest reviewer Andy Whittaker looks at our first batch of new metal figures can bepaint- each ofthese ures intotal,but small withonlysevenfig- So farErrol’srangeisquite rolJohn beingoneofthem. back intothisarena,Er- companies haveventured years thankfullyacoupleof counterpart. Inthelastfew dwarfed byitsAmerican hobby seemsconstantly others andyetwithinour many, enthusedaboutby one thatisoverlookedby a bitofstrangeperiod, figures totakealookat. few ofhisnewECW chat andIborroweda sonally wehadabrief owner ofthebusiness,per- really knowErrolPace, Studios, althoughIdidn’t man operationErrolJohn companies wasthesingle anywhere. Oneofthese are thankfullynotgoing a numberofmakerswho mingham Ibumpedinto to fallingsales,atBir- closing theirdoorsdue smaller UKmakerswere the factthatanumberof Last issueRobmentioned Studios ErroJohn regiment by Charles Fairfax Two pikemen, Various new releases ErrolJohn Studios The ECW seems to be The ECWseemstobe the pikemen shown here the pikemenshownhere useful basicposessuchas the period.Thefiguresare or Royalistregimentfrom ed upasanyParliamentary as well as a colour bearer as wellacolourbearer (again availableasdiffer- ent regiments). One very ent regiments).Onevery nice touch with Errol’s nice touchwithErrol’s colour bearer is the use colour beareristheuse of real Irish linen for the of realIrishlinenforthe colour itself, Errolsays he prefers to use this he preferstousethis to give a more realistic to giveamorerealistic feel and once coated in feel andoncecoatedin paint and varnish the paint andvarnishthe effect itquitelifelike. shown here depict shown heredepict soldiers from the soldiers fromthe Charles Fairfax regiment whilst regiment whilst The two pikemen The twopikemen bearers. and £20eachforthecolour for thestandardfootfigures future. Prices are£15each range furtherinthenear he hopestoexpandthe Errol whohasalreadysaid suggest youhaveachatto thenI’d period ofhistory glossy figuresfromthis painted andifyou’reafter well nicely sculpted,very conflict. Eachfigureis Parliamentary sideofthe ment, allofcoursefromthe Colonel Hampden’s regi- the colourbearerisfrom Tel:Tel: 01945 870719 01945 870719 PE13 5LJ P CambridgeshireCambrid Wisbech W Tydd St.Giles 3 FieldAvenue3 ErrolJohnErr Studios CONTACTCO

E13 5L Field i sbech olJ NTA S

ohn t. ErrolJohn Studios Hampden’s regiment by Colour bearer, Colonel A J g v G eshi e iles CT St n ue re udi os The striking armoured Roman elephant by Russian Vityaz

quality figures available in the world today. After look- Russian Vityaz ing at this piece I would say they are living up to Roman Elephant this statement, it’s just a shame that with a UK price of around £2,500.00 not many of us will be able to afford it. By now I’m pretty you will affordable. These days I I suppose the saying have noticed the striking think you need a second goes that price is relative, armoured Roman elephant mortgage for most of the and indeed this figure is a which adorns the front really good ones! Taking stunning miniature work of CONTACT cover this issue. I, like Rob this figure as an example, art which could easily be Russian Vityaz and Mark, am a big fan of it is truly stunning with displayed in a gallery or these stunning Russian exquisite painted detail museum, and as such its Tel: +7 (812) 921 2981 www.russianvityaz.com made figures, although I’m and dynamic sculpting, price reflects this. Whether not such a fan of the price and a set which most you can afford this piece tags the pieces realise people would welcome in or not I’m sure you will In the UK: these days. their collection. Russian all agree it’s a fantastic Maison Militaire When I started working Vityaz is the studio behind looking set and one which 39 Bar Street in the toy soldier industry, the figure which is owned deserves praise for push- Scarborough YO11 2HR some 10 or more years and run by Andre Ar- ing the boundary of what Tel: 01723 362257 ago, I bought the odd Rus- senyev, and it prides itself can be achieved within our sian piece as they were on producing the highest hobby. www.maisonmilitaire.com

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 11 REVIEWS

Three Indians paddling canoe (ICW1)

Three Indians returning with game from hunting trip (ICW5)

Three Indians resting on land (ICW3)

Frontline Figures Various new releases

A couple of issues ago the Indians rest-

magazine featured various ing on land’ Three Indians carrying new sets in the Frontline is a great canoe (ICW4) Figures French and Indian little camp Wars series. This issue I’m scene and the pleased to announce yet figure tending more ‘troops’ are about to to the fire is a arrive for both sides of the particularly nice conflict to help you expand touch. The final your miniature armies. canoe set is In that previous review IWC4 ‘three there was an interesting In- Indians carry- dian canoe and it’s nice to ing canoe’ which is imagi- that it would be good to see peaceful times is IWC5 see Gerard Prime, owner of native and depicts a scene Frontline do a more action ‘three Indians returning the company, and his team I’ve rarely come across based ‘war’ canoe, these with game from hunting have followed on its heels previously within our are all beautifully produced trip’. Again this is a really with three further canoes. hobby. All three of these but can’t really be used well executed set and com- IWC1, simply titled ‘three canoes, as with the previ- with ‘fighting’ figures in bined with any, or all, of Indians paddling canoe’ is ous one we covered, are the series as these depict a the canoes should suit any a bit misleading as actually well sculpted and painted much more peaceful time civilian collector who wants only one Indian is paddling and priced at £70/$99 each away from the ravages of something a little different whilst the other fires his are good value for money. war. in their cabinet. This set is rifle as the squaw loads for If I were to find any form of Another set in the series priced at £45/$66. his next shot. IWC3 ‘three fault with these it would be which is suited to more Moving away from the

12 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 42nd Highlanders (Black Watch) Grenadiers loading and ﬁ ring (IBGW1)

Four 42nd Highlanders (Black Watch) Grenadiers charging (IBGW2) 2nd Highlanders (Black Watch) Grenadiers ofﬁ cer with Kings colour and NCO (IBGW3)

Ox Wagon with four 24th Foot ﬁ ring and loading (WZW2)

peaceful looking Indians we come to the more active, or should I say battle- Ox Wagon with two Zulu and two 24th Foot ﬁ ghting (WZW1) ready 42nd Highlanders (Black Watch) Grenadiers. will be set IBGW4 ‘Officer wagons we received are CONTACTCONTACT The Black Watch have al- and drummer’ which I’m WZW1 and WZW2, the ways been popular with us sure we’ll review as soon first includes the wagon In the UK: toy soldier collectors and as it’s available. along with two 24th Foot as Frontline Figures UK I’m pretty sure these new The final new releases they fend off two attacking 1 Holmsdale Close Grenadiers will be no ex- from Frontline this issue Zulus, whilst the second Westcliff-on-Sea ception, each set is full of are for a different period, (WZW2) depicts four 24th Essex action and painting is both the Zulu Wars, and they Foot letting off a volley SS0 0QW Tel: 01702 352060 detailed and very neat. Sets certainly aren’t your ‘run of fire from behind their I’ve seen so far are IBGW1 of the mill’ foot figure sets. overturned wagon. Due Email: [email protected] ‘two standing and two load- These two new ox wagons out shortly will be WZW3 ing’, IBGW2 ‘four charging’ will, I know, be welcomed and WZW4, both of which For the rest of the World: and IBGW3 ‘Officer with by many collectors of this can be viewed already on 14th Floor, Unit C King’s colour and NCO’. period as all too often mak- Frontline’s website. Priced Derrick Industrial Building 49-51 Wong Chuk Hang Road Sets are priced at £62/$88 ers producing Zulu War at £73/$108 I have to say Aberdeen for IBGW1 and IBGW2 ranges just make Zulus and these are some of the best Hong Kong whilst the Officer with 24th Foot and forget about value sets I’ve seen in Tel: +852 28380263 Kings colour NCO will set all the equipment, build- the last few years espe- Email: [email protected] you back £47/$66. Planned ings and other participants cially considering there’s a www.frontline-figures.com for release early next year that were there! The two wagon in the set.

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 13 REVIEWS and Confederate infantry and Confederateinfantry 1863(6030) Virginia Army’ ‘North Confederate cavalry series. fits withinitsNapoleonic ACW rangewhilstthethird sets aretogowithOryon’s December. Two ofthenew which aredueoutduring posted methreenewsets agents ABGee,recently the rangeforOryon’s UK 54mm mark. ing inatthe1/32ndscaleor our hobbywithfigurescom- the figuresaremoretrueto scale howeverthesedays company madewere1/35th Originally thefigures for anumberofperiods. which producesfigures an Italianbasedcompany For is theuninitiatedOryon more recentlybyJeniFoster. back intheearlydaysand magazine, firstlybyMark featured afewtimesinthis Collectionhave The Oryon 14 ACW sets andNapoleonic CollectionOryon The twoACW setsare: Dave Jones,whohandles

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR their horses and the set their horsesandtheset they appeartobemissing flat, addtothisthefactthat Scots Greysappearalittle it butthefacesofthese not surewhathascaused prefer theACW chaps.I’m although Ihavetosay set arestillwellproduced the threefigureswithin of amouthfultitlebut (Scots Greys)1815isabit regiment ‘RoyalDragoon’ 20th British Heavycavalry style. helps explainthepaint artists, andthiscertainly done byanumberofItalian China althoughsculptingis the figuresareproducedin From whatIunderstand subtlepainttouches. very details), andhavesome Mark’s firstreviewformore heritage(see company’s surprising consideringthe really wellsculpted,not (6032). Thefiguresareall 21st regiment‘Mississippi’ The Napoleonic set (6027) The Napoleonicset(6027) ‘Mississippi’ (6032) Confederate infantry21stregiment ABOVE MIDDLE Army’ 1863(6030) Confederate cavalry‘NorthVirginia ABOVE TOP Dragoon’ (ScotsGreys) 1815(6027) Heavy cavalry20thregiment ‘Royal LEFT under £14. My only other under £14.Myonlyother each figureworksouttobe £39.99 (approximately$63) value though,pricedat a battle. one thatisthemedaround a diorama,especiallynot not reallysuitedforusein work finebutIfeelthey’re individually theywould me. Asfiguresdisplayed just doesn’t reallyworkfor All three sets are good All threesetsaregood these figuresupalevel. but ifaddressedcouldtake setting, thisisasmallpoint groundwork inadiorama the figureblendinto textured bases.Thishelps there thesedaysyouget mattrangeout almost every they havenotexture,with quite thickandsecondly bases. Firstly thebasesare this rangewouldbethe minor complaintabout Tel: 01773 570444 DE5 3SW Derbyshire Ripley Asher LanePark Asher House A.B. GeeofRipleyLtd In theUK: www.oryon.it Tel: +39(0)22666076 Italy 20133 Milano 6 Piazza Bernini, ORYON S.R.L. CONTACT Highland gentleman shooting, Tommy Atkins trusty canine and fence Highland Life

A company that needs little introduction is Tommy Atkins, the Turner family who own and operate the tors who have no interest Highland pipers company from their base in our usual hobby of ‘toy in Gosport have been soldiers.’ involved in the hobby for Shown here are various a long time and have built single figures in the new a solid reputation based range, all of which retail for on high quality traditional £12. Along with a dog (£5), style figures. I first met some fence sections (£5), brothers Mark and Paul pipers (£14) and a chap Turner at the Chicago catching his salmon dinner show (in the bar if memory (£16). All figures in the serves me correctly) around series are well produced, seven years ago. Since our and the dry brushing of the first meeting the TA brand matt paint on items such has gone from strength to as the dog really helps strength and the family bring the series to life. The now not only offer gloss fisherman is certainly the figures but also matt for nu- most fun in the series, and ‘The ﬁ sherman’ merous periods of history. a selection of these figures The new range I’ve and accessories, combined chosen to feature this issue with some JG Miniatures is ‘Highland Life,’ I was scenery, will give you particularly drawn to the a winning non-military series because of its civil- themed diorama in no time! ian nature when I came across it at the Birmingham show recently. Civilian figures always seem popular, and a range such as this often appeals to collec-

CONTACT

The ‘shooting party’ Tommy Atkins with fence section 38 Gale Moor Avenue Gosport Hampshire PO12 2SJ Tel: 02392 602889 www.tommyatkins.com

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 15 54mm Models

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Prancing knight of Agincourt. £25 or £7.10 as castings plus 10% p & p UK, at cost overseas www.dorsetsoldiers.com Email: [email protected]

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16 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR CHARGE!

Before the trenches, barbed wire and pitted landscapes of the Western Front, cavalry scouted and fought. Now a new World War One range from Heritage Miniatures celebrates

the last hurrah of these mounted British troops.

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 17 s a collector of World War One figures and reason, in fact, that armies soon dug for the survival of a equipment I’ve never had it so good! I never stalemated trench system from the Channel coast to Swit- thought I’d say that about a collecting theme zerland. once seemingly unable to make the jump into As a collector, I hoped that smaller manufacturers would A the mainstream of matt realism. But now it join the WW1 fray and fill the gaps, perhaps, that the ‘big has – big time – and WW1 is established as boys’ left. That is what’s happened here. These Heritage a major toy soldier theme. And things can only get bet- Miniatures figures only exist, I venture to suggest, because ter: to date, the major companies have only touched the W. Britain blazed the trail and produced three really good very early years of the war so there are many riches still to mounted British cavalrymen. Heritage Miniatures is at- come. For this we must thank William Britain and, hard on tempting to swell those ranks with this all-action range of their heels, King & Country. their own. It’s a canny move: collectors like me who have By starting at the beginning of the war, the W. Britain rediscovered the early months of the war are now more releases prompted WW1 collectors like me to go back to knowledgeable and therefore more susceptible to purchas- our books and rediscover the early years. Too often, I think, ing cavalry figures than before. WW1 enthusiasts tend to concentrate on July 1st 1916 I’ve been astonished to read of the work that mounted onwards and neglect the earlier events. troops did. At times it felt as if I was reading about the So I rediscovered Mons and the early months and found ECW or ACW! Cavalry scouted – it was essential for them a very different war. A war of movement, of outflanking, to feel out the enemy to report where they were and with retreating and the destructive power of artillery. The very what strength and armament. The first (Western Front)

18 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR Figures 04 and 05

Figures 06 and 07

Figures 010 and 011. Note the ofﬁ cer with pistol drawn

shots of the war were fired in a skirmish in exactly those speed and derring-do. Including both officers and troopers, circumstances. Mounted troops took prisoners and seri- lances and sabres (12 of each), collectors can build up the ously fought too. They charged enemy positions and later regiment or charge of their choice. The Scots Greys can carried out the dangerous work of protecting their army’s be ordered too, see figure 02. Mixed attacks employing rear as it retreated, exhausted, from Mons. lances, sabres and pistols would have been seen in the Most famously, there was one lance-versus-lance battle same engagement – as at Moncel which was a 2nd Cavalry between British and Germans at Moncel on the 7th Brigade attack (9th Lancers in front with the 4th Dragoon September 1914. Guards in support). Considering what the war soon became, With eight different horses, it’s a ‘multi-pose’ range such a battle even then belonged in too so collectors can order, within the realms of a time warp. This engagement saw possibility, any rider with any weapon on any the last British horse soldier to die from an horse. That flexibility, a service uniquely offered enemy-inflicted lance wound. by small manufacturers, is a big plus to the This Heritage range of some 24 figures of specialist collector. If you want more casual- Dragoons and Lancers (with Germans to fol- ties, for example, with horse head changes low) captures the ‘attacking’ element of mount- and different torsos with different arms, you ed troops’ work with a real sense of urgency, could build up the carnage you seek. It’s a very obvious point but if the enfiladed fire of two Figure 02. The ﬁ gures can be produced as the Scots Greys well-placed machine guns could wipe out a

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 19 battalion in minutes, imagine what one could do against attacking cavalry. Indeed, imagine what a few sharpshoot- ers with rifles did against targets of this size. If unhorsed they would use their rifles – usually 90 rounds would be carried in their bandoliers – and they were well-trained marksmen. Typically they could get off 17 aimed rounds a minute starting with one in the breech. If Heritage expanded this range, troopers firing from the cover of a dead horse would represent a familiar sight as would ‘horse-holders’ where one trooper, while skirmish- ing, would hold four horses while his dismounted col- leagues fired at the enemy. A slight downside with the figures is that I would have liked to have seen a few horses with docked tails as many were commandeered from hunting stables and riding schools. But, as with many Heritage ranges of the recent past, I like the natural harmony between horses and riders. There is a good range of facial expressions, the obliga- some of the metallic horses’ bits need taking down a notch tory moustaches and the darkened equipment and horse or two. furniture. It was essential not to reflect sunlight which, in The lances are depicted as made of ash but some are scouting, would give their positions away. Later, even cap painted to emulate bamboo (see figures 22 & 23). These badges were dulled for the same reason. Here, I think, lack the ‘knobbly’ joints of that particular wood which were

20 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR Figures 14 and 15

Figures 22 and 23. Note the bamboo lances Figure 08

Figures 24 and 25

Following tradition, buglers were assigned distinctive coloured horses. sculpted into and much distinguished the recent W. Britain figures. But overall, considering these are prototypes and photographed while the paint was still drying, there is no doubt- ing their quality and the exciting display possibilities they offer. Many minor points will be ironed out on production and I look forward to buying as many as I can afford! Sculptor Martin Tabony knows about soldiers and is one of the best in the UK when it comes to sculpting horses. This range ambitiously puts the two together with style Figures 18 and flair. It may lack the battlefield horror of Conté ranges and 19 and the smooth painting panache of Chinese-made figures, but it’s still a fine effort. I have no hesitation in calling this range a fitting tribute to men who were overtaken by the emerging ‘white heat’ of technology and who, quickly, abandoned their horses, sabres and lances for the uncer- tain sanctuary of the trenches. Thereafter, generals dreamt of artillery and infantry making a breakthrough allowing cavalry to break-out into Figure 09 open country beyond. But they were only dreaming. That CONTACT wasn’t going to happen. Not on the Western Front. Mount- Heritage Miniatures ed troops attacked briefly in 1918 when a return to a ‘war 39 Bar Street of movement’ occurred but cavalry were, by then, riding Scarborough more towards the history books than the mouths of enemy North Yorkshire. YO11 2HT machine guns. Tel: 01723 362257 Each: £45. Gloss painted option not yet available. Cast- [email protected]. ings are not available. END co.uk Text: Rob Hendrie. Photographs: Andy Whittaker.

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 21 Life on the street Paul Stocker chats to well-known toy soldier dealer Andy Morant at his stall in Portobello Road, Londondon

AM: I always had an interest in toy soldiers. My mother started dealing in antiques in 1984 I joined her in 1989 after doing some traveling, and after 4 years I went into the business full time. I’ve been here on the stall Charming clockwork money box, Fridays and Saturdays ever from Andy’s wider stock of toys since. Andy Morant (left) faces questioning from your intrepid reporter – “Answer the myself but I’m now tending question Mr Morant!” PS: So you have plenty of to look out for more unu- expect a lot of people will time to yourself apart from sual ones. recognise Andy Morant’s Friday and Saturday? I name and face from his PS: Who are your typical regular attendance at toy AM: You’re joking! When customers? soldier shows but they I’m not on the stall I’m might not have visited dealing with customers and AM: I have a different his stall in the Portobello their requests, out looking customer base to most toy

Road market, where he is Andy Morant’s stall in Portobello for customer requirements soldier dealers because as to be found on Friday's and Road and new stock, and pric- well as serving dedicated Saturday's. Andy grew up sic model cars and other ing individual items which collectors at the fairs and near the Portobello Road toys, along with some vin- can take a long time all by shows and privately, the and still lives close by so tage clothing. He certainly itself. Portobello Road introduces this journey to work on set out a wonderful show me to a wider market of Friday and Saturday isn’t a of figures for our visit. PS: Given your long inter- people who might never go long one. The job of setting est you must keep some to a show or an auction to up his stall and setting out PS: How did you get into figures for yourself. buy soldiers. his stock is a different mat- the business of selling ter because Andy not only toy soldiers and how long AM: I have a small col- PS: But you attend some sells soldiers but also clas- have you been here? lection of typical soldiers shows as well, don’t you?

Andy Morant’s ‘army’ on parade Just three of a much larger group of quite rare Heyde polo players

22 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR AM: I’m usually at The Toy Soldier Show Lon- don (organised by King & Country), Norman Joplin’s Old Toy Soldier Show and I have a different the Sandown Park Toy Fair. customer base to Unfortunately, I never seem most toy soldier to be able to get away from the stall to be at the BMSS dealers Annual Show though.

PS: Where do you find Britains box, estimated to your new stock? make £40-50 at an auction Elastolin Mexican Soldiers, rather like Household Cavalry in green tunics. Can anyone identify the regiment? was actually sold for £950! AM: Auctions, shows, and house clearances are regu- PS: What’s been your own lar sources. The BMSS and best buy? personal contacts produce a lot of good things. And I AM: That has to be a col- keep my eyes open when lection of over 300 Mignot I’m out and about; I’ve and Lucotte mounted and found good stuff right here foot figures for £550 for the on my doorstep in Porto- lot. And that was here in bello Road. Portobello Road.

PS: What would you say PS: What’s been the rarest were the most popular item that’s passed through items for collectors? your hands.

Napoleonic troops by CBG Mignot AM: It’s still Britains models AM: I'd say it was a proto- although they are now type Britains’ Guardsman getting a bit harder to find. with a moving leg from the And it’s not just the soldiers 1930s. It never went into or other models. An empty production but I managed to obtain seven at one time and was able to sell them to Britains’ bren gun carrier, a classic piece of toy military hardware real Britains’ fans for £350 each, which I was very pleased with. The customers were probably quite pleased Britains’ charging Highlanders, one of the all-time classic toy soldiers too because one was recently

Early Elastolin WWI German troops and British Guardsmen

RIGHT Customers from New York choosing a present for their father who collects toy soldiers

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 23 Lineolneol stretcherretchher partyarty

AssortedAs Zulu warriors

sold in America for $8$8,000! 000! AM: I have a lot of children buying or being bought PS: Have there been any soldiers, perhaps for doing ‘mystery’ figures? well at school. My youngest was probably a four year AM: I’ve found an Elastolin old. And my young cus- French Napoleonic figure tomers often have plenty which I can find no infor- of money to spend. One mation on at all. I didn’t youngster had been given know Elastolin ever pro- £500 to spend by his father! Imrie Risley Imperial Romans duced Napoleonics. I would love to hear from anyone PS: So there really is an in- who has any information terest among the younger about them. generation?

PS: Where do most of your AM: In my experience, yes. customers come from? So there is hope for another generation mad about AM: You would be surprised soldiers. at how many people are interested in toy soldiers, PS: A lot of business is and from countries you done on the internet now. would never expect. The Do you deal that way? furthest may be China and there is a growing demand AM: I don’t trade on the from there but I have internet, I like my custom- Cherilea medievals, note the different heads customers from just about ers to see what they are everywhere in the world. I buying and I think it is only AM: Probably a bookmaker is highly infectious and he have even noticed a lot of fair that they get the first or maybe a poker player! will be happy to talk to you new customers from Greece shot at any new stock that about soldiers. Of course, recently. may come in, hopefully it If you are in the area of he will be happy to sell will stay like that. Portobello Road, Andy’s you some too although I Many customers are stall has to be a ‘must visit’ have the strong impression regulars who may visit me PS: What do you think although you can of course that, if he could, he would once or twice a year from you would be doing if you also see him at the shows be happy to keep them all overseas and will phone in weren’t doing this? mentioned above. Do take for himself. END advance to see if I have any the time to talk to him, his Photographs by Peter Dunn figures they want, which enthusiasm for the hobby I will then keep under the table for them. Also I have CONTACT a growing number of young Andy Morant Antiques customers, which is encour- Britains’ searchlight Stall 5 and anti-aircraft gun aging. Portobello Road London W11 PS: Really? How young are Tel: 020 7229 4369 we talking? Email: andymorantantiques@ hotmail.com

24 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR King & Country UK TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR COMPLETE YOUR COLLECTION

August/September 05 Issue 5 £3.75 October/November 05 Issue 6 £3.75 OUT OF PHALANX EAST OF INDIA’S NEW THE WOODS ANCIENT GREEKS Conté Collectibles’ SOLD OUT SOLD OUT French & Indian War

• Over 20 pages of •• Over 20 pages of new releases new releases • Lord Nelson feature •• Ken Osen feature • Collecting the Zulu War •• New ECW range • Suffragette figures •• Cholmondeley Collection “ ... we’re as serious about collecting as you are ...” “’ ibtllti ”

December/January 06 Issue 7 £4.50 February/March 06 Issue 8 £4.50 April/May 06 Issue 9 £4.50 June/July 06 Issue 10 £4.50 WAR TORN ONE WAY TICKET Do or die NEW RUINED ALL ABOARD New WWII BUILDINGS BY TROPHY MINIATURES’ releases from JG MINIATURES NEW WW1 BUS Conté Collectibles The

• Over 20 pages of Lone Ranger new releases • New French rides again Napoleonic band - special feature. • Holger Eriksson figures • Longbows & arrows - a special feature

• Over 18 pages “HI-YO SILVER, of new releases • Auction Report • ACW Swoppets • Native American Women figures AWAY!”

• Over 20 pages of new releases • 20 pages of new releases • New WW1 Marching Band • Frontline’s new Air Wars • Knights of Agincourt • Women of the West • New toy soldier books • Conté's Viking Ship

“ ... we’re as serious about collecting as you are ...” “ ... we’re as serious about collecting as you are ...” “ ... we’re as serious about collecting as you are ...” “ ... we’re as serious about collecting as you are ...”

August/September 07 Issue 17 £4.50 October/November 07 Issue 18 £4.50 First in – Last out Welcome to HELL Heritage Miniatures new New Spartans from Conté Collectibles 95thRifles come crashing in

• 1 9 pages of stunning new figure reviews 1 9 pages of stunning new figure reviews • Show reports – s BMSS & London (June) s Show reports – BMSS & London (June) • S oldiers of the Raj – s Soldiers of the Raj – The Indian Cavalry The Indian Cavalry

“ ... we’re as serious about collecting as you are ...” “ ... we’re as serious about collecting as you are ...”

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26 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR Skinner’s Soldiers Canadian writer Guy Elliott tells of how he started collecting figures made by Bill Skinner of The Scottish Toy Soldier Company

tedly I had the odd run in with figures from the period, some Bussler Hessian castings in the early 1960s, Britains ARW ‘Swoppets’ in the middle of the dec- ade and an unusual ARW American Artillery vignette, by lesser-known maker Strombecker, in 1969. However, it wasn’t until thirty two years later, after a career teaching history, that I bumped into Bill Skinner for the first time. I was at the London show, part of a trip to the UK as a treat to myself upon retirement, when I happened upon the table marked The Scottish Toy Soldier Company. Bill started chatting away immediately and I soon realised he was the owner of this small The King’s Royal Regiment of New business. As we chatted York, c.1783 I purchased some 11th Hussars and two boxes of met Bill Skinner, owner Indian Infantry, the figures and operator of The Scot- were simple toy soldiers Itish Toy Soldier Company, but very neatly painted only once and for a total of and extremely well-priced. about ten minutes. It was As we continued talking I Saturday, December 2, 2001 mentioned to him I was Ca- at The Toy Soldier Show, nadian, and frustrated by held at the Royal National the duty I had to pay when Hotel in where else but, ordering toy soldiers from London. I was there for the UK. “Nonsense“, came my one and only visit to Bill’s reply, “I’ve been ship- the famous show, and that ping to Canada for years meeting started for me a and there’s no duty to pay. I love of the soldiers of the put the correct code on the 18th century. packages so your customs As a boy growing up ladies know how to deal in Canada in the 1950’s with it “. and 60’s I collected plastic Once back home in military model kits, Dinky Canada I sent for Bill’s toys, cowboys and Indians catalogue and noticed, only and especially, Britains. But in passing, that he also did 3rd Regiment of Foot (The Buffs) c.1751 1700’s stuff, never! Admit- 1700’s British and French

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 27 Infantry and Cavalry. That summer my wife and I were in Kingston, Ontario and I read an historical plaque whilst there which was dedicated to the King’s Royal Regiment of New York. This was a Loyalist Regiment from the Ameri- can Revolution which came to Kingston to disband The British Infantry advances in Line, ‘Hat’ companies in the center, ﬂ anked by Grenadiers. (left to right) 8th Foot, The and settle. I again thought King’s Regiment c.1745, 33rd Foot, Duke of Wellington’s Regiment c.1704, 5th Foot, Northumberland Fusiliers c.1742, of Bill and his catalogue, 58th Foot, Northamptonshire Regiment c.1740 upon checking I was disap- pointed, but not overly surprised, the regiment wasn’t one he made. I then started to wonder if maybe he’d do them as a com- mission. Sure enough after communicating with Bill he said he’d be happy to make what I was after, not only an unusual regiment, but an eight-man set instead of his usual six. A few weeks later my new troops arrived and they were amazing, and they were just the beginning! That same year I was reading an old Osprey book (one of a number I’d picked up in London) when my wife Sandy walked by, The 5th Dragoon Guards c.1782 and Royal Artillery c.1750 looked at the cover and said, “That’s a good looking He knew so much and soldier on the cover. Do you was so willing, I began to have any like that?“ It was try and raise the bar. Would the Buffs, with a picture he do artillery and cavalry, of a Grenadier from 1751. yes came the reply. How I didn’t have them and about something from the Sandy was right, a dra- early 1700’s around Marl- matic uniform which was borough’s time, again the well worth adding to the response came back a yes. collection. Bill made the In fact, it seemed that the Dutch troops (left) Life Guard of Foot ‘Blue Guards’ c.1702 and Foot Guard Buffs and since 2002 has more difficult the chal- Grenadiers c.1750 done many other units for Swedish Sodermanland me. I browse through my Grenadiers c.1757 (at the rear) and Austrian references, find a regiment Artillery c.1740 I don’t have, and do want, and Bill makes them. He has an amazing depth of knowledge to help me; for starters he knew what ‘gos- ling green’ was as a facing colour. Soon the regiments missing in my collection began to arrive and as the painting is so good I began asking Bill to always to do a drummer for each unit in their startling reversed colour scheme.

28 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR RIGHT The Seven Years War in America (1756-1763). The French (at the rear) New France Cavalry Corps and Compagnies Franche De La Marine BELOW ‘Washington at Yorktown’ c.1781 by Strombecker’s BELOW RIGHT The Seven Years War in America (1756-1763). The British (left) The Virginia Regiment and The Louisbourg Grenadiers

he simply wrote to all of keep going back for more. his customers to say that In my collection his sets he was just going to stay are spread out amongst the lenge, the more he enjoyed should be able to just about home until it all blew over. other regiments but look doing it. As for the qual- make out the three different He has indeed done this, particularly great en masse ity, in truth, the sets kept regiments in the photo). but has also passed on his as a unit advancing in line. getting better and better. I Often Bill and I chat lowered costs by reducing Half the fun for me these then turned to my favourite on the phone to work out his prices. He’s even been days is spending my time uniform book, Blandford’s technical issues which kind enough to extend my searching for regiments, ‘Military Uniforms of the always pleasant, if a little wife and myself a standing knowing full well that Bill World in Colour’ and the challenging. Bill has a invitation to visit should we will make my quests come section on the Dutch, Aus- strong Scots accent and ever be in Scotland. true. trian and Swedish troops, from his point of view I’ve a Now before anybody The spill-over from all no problem all done. Next I strong Canadian accent but reading this gets confused of this is that I now con- went for American colonial we struggle through, even I do order figures from sciously watch out for sets and Soldiers of New France, though he has a droll sense other makers, mostly cast- from this period. I’ve been within a short space of time of humour! When all the ings I will admit, and I do rewarded with two sets these were done. brouhaha, about so many also order other periods from a local Toronto maker, Okay, a lot more work shows a year in London, from Bill but his 1700’s era Queen Victoria. These are for the next one I thought. occurred a few years ago soldiers are so great I just a little closer to 60mm than In 1758, as was the cus- 54mm but I couldn’t resist, tom, General James Wolfe what has Bill Skinner done assembled the Grenadier to me! END companies from the Regi- All figures shown are by The Scottish ments present at the siege Toy Soldier Company unless otherwise of Louisbourg into an elite stated. assault unit. But unusually, he kept them together as a unit and they fought at CONTACT the siege of Quebec as the The Scottish Louisbourg Grenadiers. Toy Soldier Co. In the set would be six 10 Reid Street grenadiers, one drummer Salsburgh Shotts and one officer but made ML7 4LL up from the 22nd, 40th and Tel/fax: 01698 870130 45th Regiments. Bill again Figures by Canadian company Queen Victoria. 55th Foot, The Border Regiment Mobile: 07796 161136 stated; “No problem“. (You c.1741 (at the rear) and American Continental Artillery Fifes and Drums c.1777

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 29 REVIEWS 30 30 CASTING AROUND Paul Stocker takes a look at the latest castings Soldiers Studio112range and onekneelingfrom Dorset 24th footﬁ the end, 1,600 British and the end,1,600Britishand from 1812to1815and,by the ‘American War’ lasted the War of1812.Actually from American infantryman Royals bandsmanandan in theformofaBluesand figures havenewadditions kneeling toreceive. and kneelingfiringor rifle restingontheground der armsorattentionwith such asatattentionshoul- number ofusefuloptions, one kneeling.Bothoffera ures, oneatattentionand with twonew24thfootfig- range continuestogrow, ing. results arealwaysinterest- the scaleofoutput, earlier issues.Butwhatever furious pacewitnessedin out actuallyreturningtothe since mylastreview, with- his outputofnewreleases Soldiers hassteppedup Giles BrownofDorset The newmilitaryandcivilianHighlanddancersbyDorsetSoldiers Various new releases Dorset Soldiers Giles band and parade Giles bandandparade The Studio112ZuluWar gures, oneatattention able for a Highland sword able foraHighlandsword crossed broadswordsavail- Dorset. Naturally, thereare already availablefrom Scottish dancerwhichis to accompanythefemale Highlanddancers military attractivecivilianand very nearly amonthlater. the treatydidn’t arriveuntil it tookplace.Butnewsof a closetwoweeksbefore ent hadbroughtthewarto because theTreaty ofGh- never havehappened at NewOrleans,should know of, theBritishdefeat one battlemanypeople conflict andperhaps the died. It’sanotherneglected 2,260 Americantroopshad rearing horse knight withalanceon RIGHT Dorset’s mounted Soldiers Giles Brown ofDorset Lightfoot aspaintedby ABOVE RIGHTSirJohn Giles has produced two Giles hasproducedtwo John Lightfoot bywayofex- sent methepicture ofSir fers paintedfiguresandhe shops). able fromallgoodmodel longer pieceofrod(avail- rectified bysubstitutinga pedantic butit’seasily It’s probablyjustmebeing knight looksabitshort. supplied withthemounted a quibblebutIthinktherod It seemsungracioustooffer rod willbemuchstronger. sense becausethemetal which makesexcellent in placeofcastlances, Giles isofferingmetalrod knights reviewedlasttime, easytoassemble. very are greatcastingsand horse. Sufficetosaythey with aswordongalloping and themountedknight a lanceonrearinghorse the mountedknightwith of Agincourt’.Theseare of themounted‘Knights reproductions oftwomore usual droolingoverGiles’ dance. Of course,Gilesalsoof- As withtwoofthefoot tocontainmy I willtry Mounted knight with a sword on a galloping horse The new Farrier casting from Dorset Soldiers by Asset Miniatures

ample of the more detailed Dorset’s Blues and Royals painting (ie as opposed bandsman (left) and American infantryman from the War of 1812 to the simpler original ‘Britains style’) he can offer if the knights are ordered painted. It looks as if Giles may have referred to Peter Cowan’s book, ‘Selwyn Miniatures’ (previously Asset Miniatures reviewed in Issue No.7) for painting Sir John and that’s Farrier casting a timely reminder that it is still available from Peter. It Anne and Colin Randall of Asset have added another provides an excellent ac- Castings from Dorset Sol- excellent figure to their Household Cavalry castings, this count of the origins of these diers measure 54mm ap- time the Farrier, without which no ceremonial appear- figures and lots of useful prox. The mounted ‘Knights ance by the Blues and Royals and Life Guards would be examples of how to paint of Agincourt’ cost £7.10 in complete. The Farriers are always clearly visible riding them. kit form, £25 painted in the at the rear of the two regiments carrying their shining The rearing and gallop- original Britains style. More ceremonial axes. Farriers are the members of the regi- ing knight make four out of detailed paint finishes are ment responsible for shoeing the horses. The polished the five Agincourt mounted available by arrangement. steel axes they carry recall the fact that they had the job knights now available. The Foot figures cost from £2.50 of dispatching seriously wounded horses after battles and remaining one, the knight for castings or £7.50 gloss removing the numbered hooves to record horses killed. charging with a lance, painted. P&P is 10% UK, at Farriers of the Blues and Royals and the Life Guards both should be available soon. cost overseas. Please note wear blue tunics with blue cuffs but while the B&R Farri- Finally, some useful ta- that Giles has informed me ers wear the usual red helmet plume of their regiment, bleware for anyone portray- that his prices are currently the LG Farriers wear a black plume. Neither wear the ing figures taking some under review. heavy cavalry cuirass worn by the rest of their regiments, refreshment. Giles has pro- which makes it a bit easier to spot the red cord which duced a goblet, bottle and CONTACT runs through the middle of the waist belts worn by both. flagon all attached to a sin- Dorset Soldiers My thanks as always to Anne Randall for filling so many gle sprue, which makes for Unit 112, Southway gaps in my knowledge. easy painting. If the spigot Southwell Business Park, To reflect the uniform customs of each regiment, As- on the base of each of these Portland, Dorset. set’s Farrier comes with a choice of heads, each with a is left on after painting DT5 2JS different regimental badge on the front of the helmet and them, the individual pieces Tel: 01305 823003 a different shaped helmet plume. I also received a choice can be fixed securely to a www.dorsetsoldiers.com of two heads for the horse, CONTACT table or anything else. one lowered and one raised, Peter Cowan which allows for a bit of vari- Asset Miniatures Upper Town Cottage ety in a rank of otherwise still 12 Norwood Drive North Harrow Berrington mounts. Tenbury Wells Middx Worcestershire Asset castings measure HA2 7PE WR15 8TH 54mm approx and the Farrier Tel: 0208 868 0422 www.petercowan.uk casting costs £13.50, plus www.assetminiatures.co.uk Dorset's goblet, bottle and ﬂ agon P&P at 10%.

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 31 sided to me. These are smashing figures and bring back memories of my childhood (a tribute to both Ian’s fig- REVIEWS ures and my memory) and the way the not so distant future was being portrayed then. Ian’s other new offering is another of his ‘really useful’ figures capable of performing a variety of roles according to which weapons or tools he is supplied with. He’s similar ‘Guard’ (left) and ‘elite’ troopers from the Irregular retro sci-ﬁ range to the standing ‘general purpose’ figure reviewed in the last issue but is wearing a shirt without Irregular Miniatures pockets and shorter boots. He also wears a British Aliens, Elite Troopers & Zulu War colonial helmet and is obviously intended for the I am delighted to see that so our intrepid space pilot pilot hero with some heavy Zulu War period but a bit Ian Kay at Irregular Mini- hero needs a bigger gun hardware and a slightly of simple conversion work atures has added some and some back up. Enter a portly companion with a to substitute alternative new aliens to his retro sci- new version of the original pistol. Still seems a bit one heads would make him fi range. There are three suitable for plenty of other more of the larger aliens, scenarios. two troopers and an officer The Zulu War figure and four of the smaller measures 54mm approx aliens, two ‘guard’ (note and the sci-fi figures meas- the long hair crests on the ure between 42mm and helmets) and two ‘elite’ 50mm approx. Ian, with re- troopers. These are all gret, has been forced to in- mean looking customers crease his prices to reflect the higher prices for metal The ‘general purpose’ ﬁ gure with and rubber. 54mm foot fig- Colonial helmet (left) with pilot hero (right) and his slightly portly ures now cost £3.75 each companion with a pistol from (mounted figures £9.50 Irregular Miniatures each). The space pilots and guard and elite aliens cost £1.25 each and the larger aliens are £2.75 each. I don’t think any of Ian’s customers will begrudge this increase, particularly as it’s offset by a reduction in P&P. New P&P rates are UK 10%, Europe 20%, Rest of World (Surface) 20%/ (Airmail) 40%. For other price changes, contact Ian or check his website.

CONTACT Irregular Miniatures 41 Lesley Avenue York YO10 4JR Tel: 01904 671101 www.irregularminiatures.co.uk The new ‘larger’ aliens from Irregular Miniatures

32 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR All The King's Men Hessian Musketeers

Ken Cliffe at All the King’s Men has already followed up Mike Blake’s review in We wanted to offer the last issue with some new Hessian Musketeers musketeers quickly on the for the American War of heels of our other Germans Independence. These now so people could make up accompany the Grenadiers, proper infantry regiments Fusiliers, Jaegers and artillery that Ken already offers. They are available as part of the ‘Washington’s Vic- tory’ play sets, or as sepa- rate bagged regiments. Ken says, “We wanted to offer musketeers quickly on the heels of our other Germans so people could make up proper infantry regiments. Most infantry regiments comprised musketeers and Fusiliers, with a handful AWI Hessian Musketeer Ofﬁ cer of Grenadiers as shock troops.” The primed and painted examples shown here help demonstrate the detail on these figures. ATKM offer these pewter castings bagged in regiments of 12 soldiers, an officer and a standard bearer for $30 USD. The figures measure AWI Hessian Musketeer Standard Bearer 54mm approx. You can find more information, including shipping rates, at Ken’s website. By way of example, shipping costs for play sets, bagged figure sets and accessories range from $5 USD for orders up to $50 to $20 USD for orders up to $400 (contact Ken for shipping AWI Hessian Musketeer marching undercoated casting, rates for orders in excess of and the ﬁ gure once painted $400).

CONTACT All the King’s Men Toy Soldiers LLC 2456 Hewatt Road Snellville GA 30039 USA Tel: 770 978 1645 allthekingsmentoysoldiers.com

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 33

The Jewel in the Crown Martin Ainscough takes a look at the Delhi Durbar and the figures that capture the occasion of the grand assembly in his final article on the Indian Army

n this third and final inin 1903 to celebrate the the of 1902, a deserted plain medals were struck, fire- stalment of my series on coronation of King Edward was transformed into an work displays, exhibitions Ithe figures of the Indian VII and Queen Alexandra elaborate tented city, com- and glamorous dances Army I am going to concen- as Emperor and Empress of plete with temporary light were all held as part of the trate on the spectacle that India and for the last time railway to bring crowds of celebrations. was the Imperial Durbar. in 1911 to mark the corona- spectators out from Delhi, Edward VII, to Curzon’s I will also feature some of tion of George V. a post office with its own disappointment, did not the figures that have been The two full weeks of stamp, telephone and tel- attend but sent his brother, produced that show the festivities that took place egraphic facilities, a variety the Duke of Connaught Army at play during their in 1903, were devised in of stores, a Police force with who arrived with a mass time in this part of the meticulous detail by Lord specially designed uniform, of dignitaries by train from globe. Curzon. It was a dazzling hospital, magistrate’s court Bombay just as Curzon and In 1877, Lord Lytton the display of pomp, power and and complex sanitation, his government came in the newly appointed Viceroy split second timing. Neither drainage and electric light other direction from Calcut- of India conceived a plan the earlier Delhi Durbar installations. Souvenir ta. The assembly awaiting to add ‘Empress of India’ of 1877, or the later one guide books were sold them displayed possibly to Queen Victoria’s titles, held there in 1911, could and maps of the camping the greatest collection of thus formalizing 100 years match the pagentry of Lord ground distributed. Mar- jewels to be seen in one of British control of the Curzon’s 1903 event. In a keting opportunities were place. Each of the Indian sub-continent and further few short months at the end craftily exploited. Special Princes was adorned with establishing Britain as an the most spectacular of his Imperial power. A grand gems from the collections Durbar or Assembly was ar- of centuries. Maharajahs ranged to which the Indian came with great retinues Princes against their better from all over India, many judgement were forced to of them meeting for the attend. What was started first time while the massed by Lord Lytton to celebrate ranks of the Indian armies, Victoria’s time on the under their Commander- throne would be held again in-Chief, Lord Kitchner pa-

ABOVE LEFT Lord and Lady Curzon arrive at the 1903 Delhi Durbar in their State Coach (set made by Royal Empress Ltd.) ABOVE Deen Dyal, ofﬁ cial photographer for the 1903 Durbar celebrations by Royal Empress Ltd. LEFT Somerset’s Purdah and camel carriage set

36 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR Beau Geste Indian civilians

raded, played their bands Elephant of the Maharajah of and restrained the crowds Alwar, by Beau Geste of common people. On the first day, the Curzons entered the area of festivities, together with the Maharajahs, riding on elephants, some with huge gold candelabras stuck on their tusks. The Durbar ceremony itself fell on New Year's day and was followed by days of polo and other sports, dinners, balls, military reviews, bands, A stunning elephant by Royal Empress Ltd. from the Durbar and exhibitions. of 1903 The world’s press des- patched their best journal- bar for a number of years. ists, artists and photogra- The history of the company phers to cover proceedings. can be traced back to the The Durbar in December time when Frank and Jan of 1911 was held to com- Scroby under the guise of memorate the Coronation Blenheim Military Models of King George V and seventy exquisitely cut dia- ers that stand out and lead Ltd commercially produced Queen Mary as Emperor monds, and covered with the field with figures from their first toy soldier in and Empress of India. Prac- sapphires, emeralds and this major historical event 1973. Marlborough was tically every ruling Prince, rubies, with a velvet and that helped to shape and formed from the ashes of nobleman, landed gentry miniver cap. formalise Britian’s control Blenheim in 1982 and it and other persons of note These very visual and of the Indian Sub-Continent then went on to create an in India attended to pay dazzling spectacles lent at the height of the Empire? extensive catalogue of sets homage to their sovereigns. themselves very well to When one thinks of fig- and individual figures that George V and his Queen the miniature world of toy ures from this momentous collectively recreate the appeared in their Corona- soldiers, and as such have occasion then there is one procession from New Years tion robes, the King-Em- provided a vast array and manufacturer that springs Day in 1903. peror wearing the Imperial scope of subject matter for readily to mind – Marlbor- Marlborough Military Crown of India with eight manufacturers. So when it ough Military Models. Marl- Models have managed to arches, containing six comes to the Delhi Durbar, borough have specialised capture the atmosphere thousand one hundred and who are the manufactur- in the figures from the Dur- of this event through their

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 37 extensive Durbar range, The unusual but charming set of the Ladies Band of the Nizam of Hyderabad by Beau Geste which when displayed together enables the collector to create their own unique procession. They also produce a vast range of figures to compliment the personalities from the main parade. Highlights from the range include a number of sets depicting various stall holders that lined the route of the main procession, together with a number of realistically posed sets of civilians to add that touch of realism to the parade route. There are of course the obligatory state elephants all faithfully reproduced in all their finery, and available with Beau Geste’s set depicting Rewa Retainers escorting one their respective entourages of the dozen silver state litters in attendance. Again, it is no surprise that W. Britain have in the past, and more recently, produced figures that depict the Durbar and the various personalities that were in attendance. Early examples can still be picked up att reasonable prices at auctionction while more modern figures and setsts are still widelyely available. The various State Elephants arere at the fore- front of the WW.. Britain figurere range and arere faithfully re-- depictingdep Cavalry (featured in Issue include a rather unusual produced inn thethe Durbar 17 of this magazine) to the female marching band, all their fin- in aall its couple of Durbar elephants Ladies Band of the Nizam of ery. Single glory,glo then that he produces, one Hyderabad, and two sets of figure sets inin rrecent would very quickly start to the Troops and Band of the can also be timestim recreate the grand proces- Sultan of Makala, Sehr & found that featureeature theth likes sion in all its glory! Mukalla. The various state subjects thatat other The ofo Wm. The other major player elephants are also faithfully Maharani’s manufacturersers Purdah by HoHocker that produces an extensive reproduced thanks to me- have perhapsps ooverlooked,erlooked Somerset Ltd. anandd All the range of figures for this ticulous research and plan- these include the Ceremo- Queen’s Men* have also historical event is Beau ning at the design stage, nial Mace Bearers and the added figures from this Geste based in Argentina. all of which is explained Silver Trident Banner of event to their respective This company has added a on the Beau Geste website. Jaipur. ranges. With a little imagi- number of sets that allow Figures are also included If Marlborough are nation and in the case of the collector to create their to represent and enhance considered to be at the fore- Derek Cross at AQM, the own individual represen- the various entourages that front of the modern pro- addition of some of his ex- tation of this historical accompanied the Maha- duction of figures and sets cellent examples of Indian event. Recent new releases rajahs to, during and from

38 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR The Maharajah of Bikanir’s State Elephant from the W. Britain 2003 collection

The Silver Trident Banner of Jaipur from the 2003 W. Britain Durbar range India’ complete with fox ples of Durbar elephants. hounds and an ‘Army off The highlight of their ‘Star Duty in India’ set which of India’ range has to be the consists of figures in vari- examples of the Maharani’s ous poses. Of course there mode of transport, the is the obligatory Tiger Hunt ‘purdah’. Since it was un- set to complete the Army thinkable for royal women the Durbar celebrations. I and loved ones, inevitably at Leisure range. This is to be seen even from afar was particularly impressed meant that army personnel also a subject area that has by male commoners, they with the State Elephant of had to spend most if not been visited by other toy were kept hidden. This Alwar which is somewhat all of their leisure time at soldier makers both past was referred to as ‘purdah’ unique in Durbar history their postings where they and present with the likes and two different versions as the Maharaja was the found themselves on active of Mountford Miniatures (in of ornate screened purdah only Indian Prince to enter service. This has also given association with Mariela boxes are available to Coronation Park standing manufacturers the opportu- Miniatures) producing a order through the Somerset in the howdah. Beau Geste nity to add civilian themed very realistic tiger hunt set website. has managed to capture subjects to their respec- complete with a well mod- this moment extremely well tive Indian Army ranges. elled horrified officer’s wife ...this particular and also faithfully repro- For example, Wm. Hocker in the howdah. Britains era of history is duce the chandeliers fixed produce a very charming also produced a rather eye still very much a to the elephant’s impres- polo set depicting a British catching cheetah hunt set sive tusks! Army team playing against which also falls into this work in progress The British Army’s a team of their Indian col- category. presence in India, and the leagues complete with goal Somerset Ltd, based in My last part of call in this troops obvious distance posts! They also produce the United States, have series is to return to Royal from British shores family a 14 figure ‘Hunting set in some well sculpted exam- Empress Ltd, who I featured in the first instalment The hunting Cheetahs of the Nizam Hyderbad made by W. Britain in 2003 of this series. Although not currently in production I feel that the quality of Bill Speer’s figures warrants another mention. While not being a major manufacturer of figures, Bill has managed to produce some very charming sets from this period of British history. I was particularly impressed

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 39 The ‘Local Hunt In India’ set by Wm. Hocker

Wm. Hocker’s ‘Army Off Duty In India’ set

Maharaja of Mysore on State elephant by Marlborough

Wm. Hocker’s Indian Polo set

CONTACT Beau Geste Militeria W. Britain Ltd Pico 2021 – (1429) Wireless Hill Industrial Estate Buenos Aires South Luffenham Princess in bullock carriage by Marlborough Argentina Oakham Tel: (5411) 4702 9394 Rutland by his figure of Deen Dyal set themselves the unenvi- LE15 8NF www.beau-geste.com appointed by the Indians able task of trying to create Tel: 01780 721723 to be the official photogra- all the State Elephants www.wbritain.com pher for the Durbar cel- from the Durbar. Although Marlborough Military Models ebrations, while his state they did not indicate which Wm. Hocker, Proprietor coach depicting the arrival of the three occasions it Beechwood Rainhall Crescent 1605 Arch Street of Lord and Lady Curzon at was they were trying to Barnoldswick Berkeley the beginning of the 1903 replicate! Lancashire CA 94709 celebrations might only be So my message to the BB18 6BS USA one of a kind it certainly collector of figures from Tel: 01282 816092 Tel: +1 510 841 4458 merits comparison along- this period in history is marlboroughtoysoldiers.com www.wmhocker.com side more commercial very much the sky is the Since I started this series of releases from other manu- limit! There is an enor- Somerset Ltd facturers. mous variety of figures articles Derek Cross, of All The 5402 Rebecca Lane So in conclusion, this being produced to suit all Queen’s Men, has sadly Knoxville announced his retirement from particular era of history is budgets and for anybody TN 37920 the commercial production of still very much a work in wishing to collect figures USA toy soldiers. Although he will still progress. Beau Geste, for from the Delhi Durbar Tel: +1 865 573 6368 be involved in the hobby, the example, indicated to me, there has never been a www.somersetltd.com decision was unfortunately while I was researching better time to let you’re taken and AQM ceased trading at the end of September 2007. this article that they have imagination run wild! END

40 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR SIX

Herald. (1954). Britains. (1967). Charging Confederates Plastic. Plastic

Britains. (1972). Trophy Miniatures. (1990s). Plastic with metal base Metal.

Forward March. (2001). Conte Collectibles. (2000). Metal Metal

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 41 The MacGregor gentleman Bob Black tells us about a new figure by Russian Miniatures etc., the MacGregor Gentleman

acKay’s Regiment including Mackay’s Regi- was formed in 1621 ment that had been serv- Mand amongst the ing in Sweden. The French first recruits were a band corrupted Sir John’s name of MacGregors. MacKay’s and the regiment became fought with the other Scots known as the Régiment regiments that formed the d’Hébron. Green Brigade through In 1661 Charles II asked the Thirty Years Wars, the Louis XIV to return the bloodiest war in Europe regiment temporarily and until the 20th century. They the regiment, now known achieved great fame and as Régiment de Douglas, recognition, and the cour- came back to England. Russian Miniatures new MacGregor Gentleman ﬁ gure age and determination of However Parliament was the Scots Regiments has worried about the inlcu- never since been excelled. sion of the regiment in the In 1633 a Royal Warrant army, and so the following issued by Charles I author- year the regiment returned ised Sir John Hepburn to to France. It was 1673 that raise a Scottish regiment the regiment finally took for service with the French. its place on the permanent The regiment was formed English establishment and from the remnants of Sir by virtue of its Royal War- John’s regiment and the rant of 1633 claimed senior- other regiments that made tury tartan associated with other Scots regiments, ity. In 1684 they became up the Green Brigade can Clan Macgregor, holding the Royal Regiment of Foot, be called “the first of the the basket hilted claymore renamed the Royal Scots Redcoats”. and carrying the “Auld (1st Foot), and they are the This figure has been Blue Blanket”, the Saint senior British Regiment. made as a special edition Andrew’s Cross, will only This superb figure, of only fifty pieces world- ever have a production run produced in the Russian wide, and as such has of 50 pieces. And for those Miniatures etc. St. Peters- been painted in a unique who prefer, the MacGregor burg studios, is a link with fashion with embellish- gentleman is also available those turbulent times when ments added which has holding a halberd. END the Scots proved they were totally changed the original the finest soldiers on the figure. The original Thirty CONTACT European continent, and Years War figure, on which back in Scotland Clan Mac- this MacGregor Gentleman Russian Miniatures etc. Gregor were “broken men” is based, will continue to 733 Glen Cove Drive Ruther Glen hunted and persecuted by be available from Russian VA 22546 their enemies. Here is the Miniatures etc. However USA beginning of the British this special edition version Tel: 1 804 448 1306 army, and in one sense, the painted in the simplified, A close up of the ﬁ gure shows the www.russianminiatures.com detailed paintwork men of MacKay’s and the yet authentic, 17th cen-

42 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR Show dates Details of Toy Soldier shows in your area December February Saturday 1st December Sunday 10th February If you organise a show, or The Toy Soldier Show - London, The Royal 14th Annual Florida Toy Soldier and Action Figure know of one other collec- National Hotel, Russell Square, London, Show, Scottish Rites Masonic Hall, 22nd Avenue tors would be interested England. Doors open at 10am and close at 4pm. and D Street, Lake Worth, Florida, USA. Doors in, then please either post Admission: Early bird (7.30 onwards) £10, general open at 9am and close at 4pm. Admission: $5, us the details or email: admission (10am onwards) £3. Organiser: K&C under 12s free. Organiser: Alan McGhee, Tel: 954 [email protected]. UK (www.thetoysoldiershow.com) 431 9295 or visit www.southﬂ oridatoysoldier.com. Information we require Tel: 01329 233141. (TSC) is the date of the event, Saturday 1st December March full address of where it Heart of the South Toy Soldier Show and Sale, Sunday 2nd March 2008 will be held, admission Annandale VFD Community Center. 7128 The West Coaster Toy Soldier Show, Irvine times, ticket prices and Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA, USA. Marriott Hotel/Orange County Airport, 18000 Von all relevant organiser Organiser: Ed Gries +1 201 342 6475. Karman Ave., Irvine, CA 92612, USA. Doors open info, including contact at 9am and close at 3pm. Admission: $5, under 12s free. Organisers: The West Coaster, tel: (760) telephone number. January 758-5481 or visit: www.thewestcoaster.com. All show listed which are Sunday 27th January followed by (TSC) means Saturday 29th March 18th Michigan Historical Collectibles Show, The Toy Soldier Show - London, The Royal the magazine will have Holiday Inn Livonia (Metro-Detroit) National Hotel, Russell Square, London. Doors a table at these events. I-275 and 6 Mile Exit, Michigan, USA. open at 10am and close at 4pm. Admission: Early TSC editors or contribu- Doors open at 9am and close at 3pm. Admission: bird (7.30 onwards) £10, general admission (10am $6, under 16s free. Organiser: Michigan Toy tors may be in attend- onwards) £3. Organiser: King & Country UK Soldier Co., Tel: 248 586 1022 or visit: ance at other shows, but (www.thetoysoldiershow.com) Tel: 01329 233141 www.michiganshow.com. the magazine may not or email: [email protected] (TSC) have a table.

How to order: Call us on 01908 274433 or order Toy Soldier Collector securely via our website store: www. toysoldiercollector.com Magazine Binders Alternatively fill in this form and post it to: Guideline Publications, Unit 3, Enigma In stock are these stunning new Toy Soldier Collector Building, Bilton Road, Denbigh East, magazine binders, the ideal thing to safely store your copies Bletchley, Buckinghamshire, MK1 1HW of this magazine for years to come.

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TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 43 REVIEWS Steve Weston Toy Soldiers Various new releases

Steve Weston Toy Soldiers Mexican Peons, including the ‘ﬁ ghtin’ female

Steve Weston Toy Soldiers WWI British ‘Tadpole Tank’, the AIP ﬁ gure shows the size

Mexican Peons Another great set from this new maker (but long-time and much liked member of the plastic soldier fraternity) in his Old West Steve Weston Toy Soldiers German range – Mexican Peons A7V Tank, the AIP WWII German ofﬁ cer show the massive size (Campasinos). Looking at the samples Steve kindly value. This is all like a with moving side cannons supplied what can I say dream come true, because in moving turrets, and three except – WOW! What a I have been a member of moving machine guns plus great idea – at last, no more a group that wargames a rear-mounted mortar. converting Airfix football- 54mm exclusively for the Made to fit with both 1:35 ers into Peons. Thanks to last 30 years and more, and (50mm) and 1:32 (54mm) Steve we now have proper we have never before had figures it is an all-plastic inhabitants for the sleepy proper Mexican Peons for construction but comes Mexican village, to be our Old West games, Steve ready-assembled. The qual- cruelly oppressed by the you are ‘the man’! ity of the casting is amaz- Mike Blake reviews the latest plastic figures for collectors for figures plastic latest the reviews Blake Mike horrid Mexican bandidos There is also good news ing, as is the price of only (coming soon) and rescued about the Mexican Bandit £14 (around $28, shipping by the gallant American figures. The masters are in to the US is approximately mercenaries (already avail- China for production and $9) I don’t know how he can FANTASIC PLASTICS FANTASIC able)! And, of course, Peons Steve is hoping to get these do it at that price, when you to turn on their oppressors out before the Chinese New consider the cost of making and slaughter them! Year halts production for all the master, molds etc. It re- There is a good selec- of February, however he’s ally is a beauty, and unique tion of poses and activi- already told me he’ll wait if to the hobby. ties, weapons (improvised he has to in order to get the But, amazingly, he now or otherwise) including a best quality product. also has a German A7V feisty fightin’ female and, Tank too! This stunning realistically, a couple of WWI Tanks brute has two swivelling prone casualties! You get One of the first pieces Ste- machine guns on each 16 figures in eight poses ve produced was a superb side, two at the rear and a for just £10 – fantastic WWI British ‘Tadpole Tank’, cannon at the front. What

44 Helmet Soldiers Napoleonic French

Replicants British Royal Marines Helmet Soldiers Ltd Napoleonic French conversions made from their own spare parts

ABOVE Just some of the Replicants Naval ﬁ gures RIGHT Steve Weston Toy Soldiers excellently detailed naval gun, badged as Napoleonic but suitable for a numerous periods of history a monster, it measures 9” long (not including can- personnel. The Replicants non or guns), 4” to top of Navy set two, has Lord look-out and 4” wide! It is Nelson and three more As Eric Kemp says on his converter’s suggestions on also £14 and again amaz- figures for £5. The British website, true toy soldier their website and they are ing value. Royal Marines set is five enthusiasts are never satis- always interested in what figures for £6, including fied and no manufacturer customers have been able Nelson’s Navy - the original marine figure. can ever produce every to turn Helmet Soldiers Naval Cannon & Finally there is the origi- miniature demanded by components into. “Just have Replicants Crew nal Nelsons Navy Set, of collectors. Today there are a go, make your regiments, The naval gun was cre- officer, sailor running with more plastic 1:32 soldiers squadrons and infantry ated especially for Steve sword, sailor with raised available than ever before companies come alive with by Gun-Ho and comes with dagger, sailor with blunder- but even so, many collec- variety, individualism and either plastic wheels and buss, and sailor with sword tors turn to conversions realism,” Eric says. In the white metal barrel straps and flintlock pistol, £5 for to provide that unique meantime take a look at and chain links, bucket and the set of five figures. model that no maker of toy the Conversions section of ram or with white metal soldiers will ever provide. the website for photos of wheels, etc. The detail on Indeed, it’s the part of the what Eric has done, and get the gun barrel is really CONTACT hobby I enjoy most. some great ideas. nicely done. The whole In the UK: Helmet Soldiers are Eric also has an interest- piece is just £8. particularly useful conver- ing blog at http://helmet- Steve Weston Toy Soldiers Steve also has the Naval sion fodder. Not only do soldiers.blogspot.com/ 14 Limburg Road Cannon Accessories set Canvey Island they produce a wide range which is full of his excellent from the best selling Essex of spare parts that can conversions of all different Trafalgar Playset. The set SS8 0QJ be used when converting makes of figures and ideas. comprises a lantern, rack Tel: 01268 680117 figures made by other mini- of cannon balls, basket of www.plasticsoldiers.co.uk ature manufacturers, but CONTACT shot, and a chest contain- the plastic used in their kits Helmet Soldiers Ltd ing cutlasses, and is a snip In the US: can be cut, bent and glued at £2. There is also a Naval with ease. Again, quoting 131 Upper Chobham Road Toy Soldiers of San Diego Gun Crew from the Trafal- Eric, never a man to avoid Camberley 847 Culloden Court Surrey gar Playset, four figures for Fallbrook a cliché, “The possibilities GU15 1EE £5, to man the cannon. CA 92028 are endless, and the only Tel: 01276 679228 Alongside the gun and constraint is your imagina- www.sdsoldiers.com www.helmetsoldiers.co.uk crew there are other naval tion!” He is going to publish

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 45 REVIEWS

Barzo Playsets Sheriff of Nottingham’s Men boxed set, with the poses The other three poses in the Barzo Sheriff of Nottingham set depicted on the box

John and Friar Tuck lead 48 because of some ‘multi- Stalwart Merry men against parting’. These have to be Barzo Playsets the Sheriff and his 48 Nor- amongst the best Ron has mans. In addition to the 100 done, and that is saying Robin Hood figures, the Playset comes something. with a large Manor house, I noticed there was no six low stone walls, ox Friar Tuck or Maid Marion cart with ox, Robin Hood’s though, these are only in Sherwood forest camp ac- the Playsets. Fans of the Tales of Robin brand new playset from cessories, including rough current TV series will not Hood Playset Barzso Playsets!” These are hewn table and benches, miss the former, but they “Remember the feeling Ron’s, the owner of Barzso, wine cask, lean-to and certainly will the latter, as you had as a kid when own words and show just much more. Manor house she’s the best thing in the you received a playset for how much the guy loves accessories include sepa- programme! I remedied a present? Looking at the the hobby. rate weapons and weapons the omission with a female box, opening those little The new set enables you rack, ‘King’s Ransom’, archer figure from the bags that contained treas- to join Robin Hood and his medieval candelabra, wall Chronicles of Narnia sets ures never before seen, set- men as they try to reclaim sconce, etc. This mighty currently being sold off ting up for the first time... Locksley Manor from the package costs $229.95 + cheap in Mr Pound shops. Well, now you can recap- clutches of the evil Sheriff $20 shipping in the US, but The Barzo sets are $19.95, ture those feelings with a of Nottingham. Robin, Little the bad news is there is no around £15.00 + p&p (final UK stockist at the moment. UK price dependent on exchange rates and shipping Tales of Robin costs). Hood Boxed Fig- ures The good news is that all CONTACT the figures from the playset are available separately In the US: packaged in window-box Barzso Playsets sets. The Robin Hood set 28W177 Marion Road has 16 Figures in eight Winfi eld IL 60190 action poses, injection molded in brown or green Tel: 630 690 7608 (same figures, different www.barzso.com Barzo Playsets Tales of Robin Hood boxed fi gure set with the box and fi ve of colour) soft plastic. the fi gures depicted on it The Sheriff’s Men set In the UK: comes in silver plastic, Ivanhoe Figures again 16 figures in eight 6 Manor House Road poses. These are excellent Rotherham figures. I can’t vouch for South Yorks S61 1NT their historical accuracy as it’s not my period, but Tel: 01709 558649 they are well animated and Email: l.cooksey@btinternet. com cleanly sculpted. They are also in a more ‘traditional’ plastic than Also Steve Weston Toy Soldiers (address elsewhere in the previous Barzo figures, this section) The three other poses in the Barzo Playsets Tales of Robin Hood Set and there are no undercuts

46 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR Toy Soldiers of San Diego New ACW Cavalry

TSSD ACW Cavalry – First of the ﬁ ring carbine poses

The latest plastic set from TSSD ACW Cavalry, the versatile guidon bearer TSSD is a new departure for but this time with pistol this innovative company. TSSD already do excellent ACW infantry, of course, and now they have produced a set of ACW cavalry to go with them. There are six riders in six poses with six horses. A seventh pose will be possible by using TSSD ACW Cavalry – charging with either the ‘plug hand with sabre but in slouch hat pistol’ or the ‘plug hand with flag’ on the figure made to take them, a nice touch which overcomes the problem which some collectors have with a specialist in each set (I must write a piece on how easy trumpeters and standard bearers are to convert!). The cavalry are designed to be used for either side in the ACW. They are SSD ACW Cavalry – the versatile equipped with Spencer guidon bearer carbines, Colt pistols and holsters and sabres. There TSSD ACW Cavalry – the second of are three in kepis, three dom colours black, brown, the ﬁ ring carbine poses in slouch hats. Two have grey and tan and are The stunning new TSSD ACW drawn sabres, two pistols, deliberately fairly generic, Cavalry, charging with sabre one a guidon or pistol, two as TSSD intend to use them are firing carbines. Uni- for other periods because CONTACT forms are the short cavalry horses are so difficult and In the US: jacket of the period on five, expensive to sculpt and Toy Soldiers of San Diego and one is in shirt sleeves manufacture. These are the 847 Culloden Court and suspenders (braces). best ACW cavalry around, Fallbrook The detail is, as always and would be easily adapt- CA 92028 with TSSD figures, excep- able to make Plains Wars TSSD ACW Cavalry - leaning forward www.sdsoldiers.com tionally good – crisp and era cavalry too – a super, ﬁ ring pistol sharp. The faces are of must-have set. In the UK: real characters – another Prices are $22 USD, Steve Weston Toy Soldiers TSSD hallmark. The rider around £16 for each set. 14 Limburg Road colour choices are ‘Union Sets of 16 horses in all four Canvey Island blue’, ‘Confederate grey’, poses and all four colours, Essex and ‘medium blue’ which retail at $26, around £18 SS8 0QJ matches the Airfix reissue a set (final UK prices will Tel: 01268 680117 7th Cavalry. The horses are depend on dollar rates and www.plasticsoldiers.co.uk in four poses in four ran- shipping costs).

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 47 REVIEWS Lemax Civilian ﬁ gures

As civilian figures are so hard to find in plastic, or in this case ‘polyresin’, and these figures are so charming, I mentioned them in the last issue. Having picked up some sets in my

local garden centre and Lemax Civilian Figures, a waitress Forces of Valor ACW checked out the American with a teapot, station master, and Confederate cavalryman school ‘marm,’ just a few of the very and new UK websites, here useful ‘town characters’ available are some more details. The company was are at the top end of 1:32 started in 1990 to cater for scale. Forces of Valor the rapidly growing pas- The great thing is the time of collecting ‘lighted enormous range of ordinary Historical legends villages’ display pieces. activities, from skating to From a modest selection of selling roasted chestnuts, quaint lighted houses, their and lots of children too – collection has expanded great for adding the right to encompass a world of touch to a parade scene for houses, figurines and ac- example. The ones we see cessories. It’s mainly the over here are winter/Christ- figures which are of interest mas-themed, but there are to us toy soldier collectors, also other themes, like Hal- of course, but the buildings loween. This may not seem could be very useful too as immediately useful, but settings for figures, though 54mm wargamers should many have a definite certainly look out for them, American feel to them. The as there are some excellent period, and scale, do vary pieces. Prices vary from a little. Most are clearly single figures at £2 on up Victorian although some are through groups at around Forces of Valor boxed set of Vikings Forces of Valor boxed set of 100 more modern. The figures £7, to large sets priced ac- Years War Knights in the building sets (and cordingly. the buildings themselves) More sets in the ‘Histori- CONTACT are down at the 1:35 end of CONTACT cal Legends’ range. The things, whilst the other sets all-action poses are good Forces of Valor In the US: and so is the detail and Unimax Toys Tel: 1 800 665 3629 ‘weathered’ paint job. The 17-19 Canton Road (Retailer Details) Kowloon figures, which are nicely Tel: 1 888 536 2988 Hong Kong (Consumer Hotline) done, are at the lower end www.inimax.com.hk www.lemaxcollection.com of the scale nearer 1:35 than modern 1:32. In the UK: The large sets are £9.50 In the UK: Ivanhoe Figures and the small sets £4.50, (address elsewhere in this Lemaxland plus postage. PO Box 5933 section) Milton Keynes Lemax Civilian Figures, ‘Game of Chance,’ a con man hustles two MK4 1WL With thanks to Steve Weston and Len Cooksey (Ivanhoe Figures) innocent passers by www.lemaxland.co.uk. who both kindly supplied samples for these reviews.

48 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR FRONTLINE FIGURES ArtilleryArtillery of French and Indian WarsWars,, continues the releases in our range, with more to come.

To find out more go to www.frontline-figures.com or your nearest dealer for details. Visit the new TSC website! RUSSIAN MINATURES

TOY SOLDIER

733 GLEN COVE DRIVE - RUTHER GLEN - VA 22546 - USA COLLECTOR TEL: 1 804 448 1306 WEBSITE: WWW.RUSSIANMINIATURES.COM www.toysoldiercollector.com EMAIL: [email protected]

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 49 n October 21, 2007, Nottingham-based Otoy soldier manufacturer RP World Models held RP open day another of its popular Open Days. Alongside demon- As RP World Models again opened its strations of casting and painting, visitors perused a doors to collectors, Rob Hendrie went vast showroom of tradition- along to see what was new … ally painted figures and castings and, duly tempted, got their wallets out! Owner Bob Prati reported that it was a particularly strong day for sales and, thanks to pre-publicity, visitor numbers were up with some coming from as far away as Gloucester and Aberdeen. It was, as ever, good to chat to other collectors and to see the enduring appeal and popularity of gloss- painted toy soldiers and the equipment to display with them. Open Days here are relaxed, informal events and always confirm that the oft-reported ‘death’ of gloss Band of the Dragoons– all dragoon regiments are available to order toy figures has been greatly exaggerated! A sea of traditional toy soldiers As these despatches often mention, very popular sellers for RP World Models are their marching bands based on the old Britains Steadfast’s WWI Renault light tank Standard Bearer figure. – one of many WWI vehicles in the range Last time I was here the band was available painted castings (£3.50 each includ- as 23 different regiments ing instrument). so it was no surprise to find The popularity of the three new ones have now marching bands has been added. With the Dra- recently prompted a new goons and Chilean Army band initiative. On show bands, a modern Tank Reg- were partially-painted iment band (not pictured) is prototypes for a Lifeguard also available. These come band (Blues & Royals avail- show for the first time I’ve seen in photographs. in 21 or 35 figure versions able too) in standing rather was a horse-drawn Field Collectors with basic con- as well as single painted than marching pose. A re- Kitchen. Requested by a version skills could easily figures (£7.50 each) and as working of a basic lifeguard collector, the model is a buy this set as castings and figure, standing bands are nicely-worked conversion adapt it for a later period. A new snowman and seasonal available in 21 and 35 fig- from an existing Steadfast Painted (as shown) the set favourite ‘fallen skater’ from the Steadfast ‘Christmas Range’ ure versions and as singles. limber. A really delicate is £90. This development will find detail is the kettle and two Future releases from RP favour with ‘Ceremonial’ mugs perched precariously World Models include an collectors and prices are on the rear. This model will elephant hauling a naval as those for the marching have wider applications I gun and a six horse limber bands quoted above. think as it looks fairly simi- and gun set. RP is also set Another adaptation on lar to WWI field kitchens to offer resin manufacturing

50 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR ABOVE & RIGHT Hot stuff: Barry Archer, RP World Models’ caster, removing hot metal from a mould

BELOW In the paintshop: prototypes of the new Lifeguard standing band

Much to view: a corner of the RP showroom

at the factory so diorama the new resin products in sections as well as other these pages. battlefield scenery and Finally, on a seasonal equipment will become note, a mention for what I available by 2008. Requests call Steadfast’s ‘Christmas from collectors for pieces Range’. This includes a they need or have always really nostalgic one horse wanted will be gladly con- open sleigh with driver and sidered. When production parcel-laden passengers, gets underway we’ll feature several Victorian ice skaters and a couple of snowmen nice display at this time of 2008 so get yourself on Bob (painted: £7 each, £3.50 year. Prati’s email list to get a as castings). Displayed to- The next Open Day will reminder nearer the time: gether, these make a really be on Sunday, March 30, [email protected] END

21 piece marching band of the Chilean Army CONTACT RP World Models Ltd. The Barracks, Maville Works, Beech Ave., Basford, Nottingham. NG7 7LU Tel: 0115 942 7462 Adapted from a Steadfast limber, the new Field Kitchen model hurries off www.rpworldmodels.net to feed hungry troops

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 51 Rebuilding Hong Kong Australian modeller extraordinaire Geoff Barnes reminisces about time spent in Hong Kong and the diorama he made his wife for her collection of civilian figures

With the cover removed the texture (antiquing) on the base is clearly visible

ABOVE LEFT The completed et me start with a diorama in its Perspex display case atop my aunt’s old Chinese warning, this diorama camphor-wood chest. Note the contains only one base made from old fence-palings L undercoated in burnt umber and military figure; a Royal then treated with the antiquing Navy chap on leave get- medium ABOVE The shop and house ting his shoes shined. interiors were prepared in Except for him and three cardboard then traced on to MDF board, these were then cut and policemen, everyone else glued with PVA and panel pins were used to ensure the glue held in this article and diorama as it dried is a civilian, getting about his or her business in the but slightly distant interest) streets of old Hong Kong. my creations crammed with However, if anyone in your over-excited people thump- family - such as your wife, ing each other with sharp girlfriend, mother or your and blunt instruments, less-bellicose relatives - caught the miniature gets bored with your mini- collecting bug relatively ature military collection, it recently. She first saw the is worth reading on. Streets of Old Hong Kong I have been modelling figures at the British Model figures since I was given Soldier Society Annuals The crush in the streets reﬂ ects photographs of the time, food is being hawked around this market as old men get their hair cut by a street barber some Plasticine at the age in 2001, where King and of four. Current calculations Country UK had a spectac- Kong to England, and she known to most readers of reveal, therefore, that I ular display. She liked the purchased the street book this magazine I’m sure, but have been engrossed in the non-military nature of the seller (HK077) on the spot. if you’re not familiar with hobby for over six decades, subject matter, and loved Her collection has never the company its military with a strong tendency to the quality of the sculpting looked back, and I was ranges are breath taking create military figures and and painting. Add to this guaranteed success with covering history from the dioramas. My wife Pene- the fact that we had just her Christmas and birthday ancient Pyramids up to the lope, after a lot of years travelled from Australia presents from thereon. current war in Iraq. The observing (with amused (where we live) via Hong King and Country are company has made a point

52 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR In the foreground a maid gets a sleek in their high fashion breath of fresh air whilst in the background you can just make and engrossed in their out the only military ﬁ gure in the state-of-the-art mobiles, diorama, a Royal Navy chap on leave getting his boots polished! hurry past on the way to bigger and better deals, but there are still traces of the older streets, the delicious cooking smells, and the old people who remember less confident times to be found if you stroll far enough away from the vast air-con- ditioned shopping malls. King and Country began producing these 'Streets' in 1994. They have produced This doctor’s room is based on one that I saw in Kowloon with drawers over two hundred groups and cupboards full of herbs and cures. The ancient glazed jars on in the series, with build- the shelf are actually beads from a ings, shops and transport to ‘junk’ jewellery shop augment them. Most of the when the Empress Dowa- poses are based on glass- ger Cixi was still occupying plates taken a century or the Dragon Throne in the so ago by missionaries, Forbidden City in Peking, military personnel and the Boxer Rebellion was speculative photographers barely over, and the nations who knew that there was a of Europe was doing their large and eager market in best to carve up the ancient Europe and the Americas kingdom among them- for images of the unknown selves. How things have worlds of the Far East. Now changed, with emergent their photographs have a China fast rivalling the new life in these 60mm other super-powers, and all miniatures. set to astonish the world King and Country's cata- when it hosts the Beijing logue continues to expand Olympics in 2008. and be up-graded. Some of creating non-belligerent My first visit to Hong of the older groups that sets of figures as well as Kong was in 1962 when I my wife had collected are military ones and this has was a young Pilot Officer now no longer available, opened the world of minia- in the Royal Australian Air and have been replaced tures to many who were not Force. In those days, half a with revised versions of the interested in toy soldiers century after the times in subject matter. per se. Not surprisingly, which the King and Coun- Of course, Penny's col- one of the most popular of try figures are set, it was lection became larger and these series, in Asia as well still a wonderfully strange, larger, purchased over the as the West, is the Streets exotic and profoundly dif- years in the UK, or at the series. ferent world for a young up-market King and Coun- The K&C catalogue ex- Aussie. Noisy, cluttered, try shop in the Hong Kong plains that ‘the name Hong energetic – yes. Fragrant – Queensway, or from my The mirror with the Chinese gods Kong in Chinese simply of good luck embossed on it in the no – although the air was old mate Peter Nathan at means Fragrant Harbour background came from a shop in filled with an intoxicating Sydney's 'Tin Soldier' shop. Sydney’s China Town, the dragons and originated back in a on the stucco wall outside also mixture of spices frying, It had expanded beyond time when the island was a came as part of the mirror. fish drying, incense burn- the space available in our collection of simple fish- gateway for the west to the ing, diesel exhausting and bookcases and display ing villages off the coast Middle Kingdom.’ They rubbish decaying. cabinets, and as there is no of southern China. After invite collectors to ‘journey I have been back many point in having a collection the Opium War of 1841, back with us to a more times and nowadays hidden away in boxes in the island, its people and colourful time when this gaze in awe at the mega- the loft, the solution was fine natural harbour were unique city was a haven for skyscrapers that have obvious. I have specialised ceded to Britain. Hong empire builders and entre- replaced the cramped in making dioramas, so it Kong began its steady preneurs, courtesans and squatter settlements that made sense that I would ascendancy to become one sea captains, rickshaws, housed the refugees from make a diorama of the of the world's great cross- rascals and refugees’, set at the mainland. The young streets of old Hong Kong. I roads and a major trading the turn of the 19th century businessmen and women, had done a similar project

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 53 The pagoda sits at the very top of the diorama. On the side of this building is a large red sign which was taken directly from one of the boxes the ﬁ gures come in, it reads The Streets of Old Hong Kong. (And no the cat’s not included!)

to showcase a friend's mas- The pillar was made from part of an old Chinese calligraphy brush, the posters are from an article about the history of sive collection of military the Chinese opera in Hong Kong and the brick textures are card on card with plaster sponged on them and then painted to match the building facades which are available as part of the range miniatures from the Front- line Figures Napoleonic The rickshaws were the taxis of their day, and as such each vehicle was range (see issue 18 of this licensed so I made up small plates magazine). This had been for each model in the diorama a much larger project, with all the buildings and land- scape to be scratch-built, and had taken a long time to complete. The 'Streets' project sounded much more easily accomplished as the building-exteriors were already available as part on the range. I had inherited a Chinese carved camphor-wood Downstairs the wine shop is in full chest from my aunt. Older swing, whilst upstairs the opium den readers will remember that is far quieter these were popular in the days when Hong Kong was instant aged-timber, appro- a British colony, and export- priate for the subject mate- ed these chests. They were rial. The cover was made used as moth-proof ‘glory in Perspex by a friend who boxes’ in which young specialises in handling this ladies stored their fine tricky medium. linen pending their mar- So the stage-manage- riages. This one became ment of the many figures the plinth for the diorama, and buildings was pre-de- supporting a base made termined by the size of the from weathered timber. The display area. This imposed base was undercoated in a disciplined approach. Burnt Umber, coated with The various street lev- Jo Sonya's Decor Crackle els and interiors for the accommodate the cast of with a fine saw or a heavy- Glaze, and then it was over- tenement buildings were hundreds, I photographed duty craft knife and steel coated in (appropriately) Jo blocked out in corrugated it in-situ for reference, num- ruler. Sonya's Colony Blue. The cardboard panels cut bered the many elements The dauntingly large pile blue matched the colour in from old cartons. Once carefully, dismantled it, of pieces was re-assembled some of the buildings, and the framework was jug- and traced the panels on with relative ease, and the crackle glaze, once ex- gled, fiddled and finally to MDF board. This type the building facades were posed to the sun, creates an established so that it could of board can be easily cut put in place. The inte-

54 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR mend 'Stan Catchpool's unoccupied. Each group Complete Modelling was carefully arranged to Workshop', written and interact with neighbours, delightfully illustrated by friends, market rivals, Bryan Fosten for Argus and potential customers. Books in 1989. It consists of The effect was splendid. a series of articles written Unfortunately, many fell for 'Military Modelling' - over or were knocked out apologies for mentioning of alignment as I wrestled another magazine, Mark the Perspex cove into place. - and contains a wealth I rearranged them, and of suggestions for cheap, Penny and I replaced the cheerful and imaginative cover more carefully. Then ideas and solutions for I realised that I had not Stage one, buying the ﬁ gures was easy. Stage two involved a little more scratch-building.) photographed them, and planning and a lot more construction The paintings, scrolls dislocated the figures once and wall decorations were again as I pried the tight-fit- from travel publications, ting dust-proof cover loose. museum catalogues, Chi- Finally, with the photo-call nese furniture brochures, finished, everyone was book-sale advertisements, re-positioned correctly. The a Chinese opera fan maga- multiple vignettes related zine, Chinese newspapers, to each other, small surpris- leaflets collected in Hong es were included for those Kong and in Sydney's large willing to spend some Chinatown area, or photo- time looking at the details, copies from books in my and the whole project was collection. The English launched with a meeting at advertising was taken from our home of fellow model- contemporary photographs lers and spouses. and rendered in appropri- It was then that Peter ate type-font on my com- Nathan casually asked if I puter. I tried to keep signs had seen the new range of historically consistent and Streets of Old Hong Kong appropriate for the period, figures that were about and although I cannot to come on the market. read Chinese, I could take I gazed wistfully at the calculated guesses from diorama to see if there was the context of the source a spare space or two. Just material. as well that I had not glued Finally, the setting was them down, after all.... END complete. The ground was painted in a colour CONTACT that matched the bases of the figurines. This was, For the UK & Europe: surprisingly, one of the King & Country UK more demanding tasks. My Unit 17, Enterprise City, rior fittings were cut from Here you can clearly see how Yellow Ochre-Burnt Sienna Meadowfield Avenue, Green the polystone shop fronts from Lane Industrial Estate, MDF board, cardboard or the range can be combined with mix changed tone when custom made structures to create Spennymoor, cartridge paper. They were a seamless and lively scene it dried, and had to be re- then painted in acrylics, done four times before it County Durham. DL16 6JF or papered, or panelled. The fine trellis-work and matched the bases. Some Tel: 01388 818882 Fax: 01388 814407 I created the impression lintels came from a carved early vintage bases also of deeper shadows with Chinese fan. Railings were had to be re-painted to www.kingandcountry.co.uk washes of Burnt Umber, constructed from decorative match those of later figures. Raw Umber, Prussian Chinese tooth-picks that And now the figures were For the rest of the World: Blue, Payne's Grey, and have tiny wood-turned de- finally introduced into their King & Country Burnt Sienna. The exteri- tails, and were purchased new quarters. They were Rm 2301 ors were painted, washed at our local supermarket! not glued into place, as this No. 3 Lockhart Road and dry-brushed to match Various light fittings and seemed inappropriate and Wanchai Hong Kong the 'Streets' buildings. door handles came from unnecessary for such a col- Tel: +852 2861 3450 The tiled floors were from a shop that specialises in lection. Fax: +852 2861 3806 dolls' house suppliers beads and buttons. (If you Space was at a premium. www.kingandcountry.com or gift-wrapping shops. can find a copy, I recom- Not a spare centimetre was

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 55 READERS LETTERS 56 56 CONSUMING ISSUES Air your views on the magazine, and the hobby as a whole

Welcome to

Conté New Spartans from

come crashing in ence toitsoverallquality. which makesabigdiffer- right weightofpaperagain and bestofallbackonthe thought-provoking articles ered, someinterestingand with allkindsofthingscov- be backtoitsvariedbest with praisewhereit'sdue. it's onlyrighttoredressit Soldier Collectorrecently, much asIhaveaboutToy when you'vemoanedas of thelastissuebecause I hadtowriteinpraise Rebellion', which does not Rebellion', whichdoesnot ably theOsprey'TheBoxer reference book-presum- when youusejustone sleeve isaBadgeofRank. red stripeonthelower away fromthenoise).The the fun(orrunofftoget three runninguptojoinin other about,withanother corporal) allorderingeach du Premiere Classe(Lance 'firing line'ofsixPrivates has creptin.Thereisa notice asmallerrorthat figures, Icouldn'thelpbut French Marineinfantry the excellentEastofIndia Looking atthephotosof Correction Uniform Improvements

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1 S S 9 pages of stunning new figure reviews how reports – BMSS & London (June) oldiers of the Raj – The Indian Cavalry

Collectibles Keep upthegoodwork. Issue 18lookedtome This is what happens This iswhathappens Jimmy Allen

“ ... we’re as serious about collecting as you are ...”

October/November 07 Issue 18 £4.50 HELL , via email

Debate Continues sented campaign. unrepre- figures ofavery that, theylookliketerrific is anNCO. Havingsaid illustration E2thatthisman photo onpage33orthe mention, eitherunderthe I’d be happy to wait a little I’d behappyto waitalittle I lovemyBritains bands, the Far Eastandalthough are notmassproducedin more thanhappytowait. set thenyoushouldbe or dareIsayevenLucotte, such asanoriginalMignot, it’s atruecollector'sitem willing towait,andwhen set fromanymakeryouare Surely ifyoureallywanta pany withlimitedoutput. are talkingasmallcom- smaller glossmakers)you like Mignot(ormanyother you refertoacompany that arttakestime,when surely hemustunderstand directed atMignotandthat mark withhiscomments Clayton isalittleoffthe of theMignotrange. admire thecraftsmanship Britains bands),andIdo of glossfigures(primarily figures, Iamacollector am notacollectorofMignot sues, issue17).AlthoughI Clayton (Consumingis- Walkey (lastissue)andMr ence tothelettersfromMr hat inthering’refer- I justwantedto‘throwmy Yours sincerely These types of figures These typesoffigures Like MrWalkey IfeelMr Maurice Alexander Bearsted, Kent move ontosomethingnew. we finishonthissubjectand the lastopportunitybefore in, althoughissue20willbe the debatethenpleasewrite other readerswishtoadd tinuing subjectandifany his commentsonthiscon- Thanks toMrPeacock for The Editorreplies:- Far Eastcertainlydon’t! for themassmarketin ever companiesproducing have someexcuse,how- ing intheirlocalareasurely nies suchasMignotwork- materialise. Smallcompa- do, theytakemonthsto become available,orifthey items whichneverseemto who continuallypromote figures intheFar Eastand that areproducingmatt about certaincompanies Walkey inhiscomments also havetoagreewithMr longer forthemifIhadto. the subjectﬁ ‘For theEditor of TSC’in [email protected] views pleasesendthemto: prefer toemailinyour 1HW MK1 Buckinghamshire, Denbigh East,Bletchley, Building, BiltonRoad, Publications, Unit3Enigma Soldier Collector, Guideline tion oftheEditorto: marked fortheatten- please sendallletters toy soldierrelated subject To haveyoursayonany WRITE IN! . Alternatively if you’d ifyou’d . Alternatively eld. Cardiff, Wales Mr GPeacock with with Toy Toy 54mm Military Asset & Civilian Figures

Highly detailed, gallery quality gloss toy soldiers for collectors

ColoursCHEERS - John AND Hampden's GOOD HEALTH Regt. See youEnglish at the ClarendonCivil War Suite, AEdgbaston, happy and safeBirmingham, Christmas on to all our customers 5402 Rebecca Lane Sunday 21st October’ 07 For a full list send an A5 SAE to: Knoxville, TN 37920 12 Norwood Drive, North Harrow, Middlesex, HA2 7PE. Tel: +1 615-513-9965 3 Field Avenue, Tydd St. Giles, Email: [email protected] Wisbech, Cambs. PE13 5LJ Tel: 0208 8680422. www.assetminiatures.co.uk www.somersetltd.com Tel: 01945 870719

STOCKISTS OF JOHN JENKINS DESIGNS Tarrant's Toy Soldiers OLD NORTHWEST Royal Navy & TRADING COMPANY Marines, Boer COLLECTORS SHOWCASE War and Parade figures are our specialty.

16 Oxbarton, Stoke Gifford, TMTERRAIN Bristol, BS34 8RP, England CONTACT [email protected] Tel: 01454 777278 Email: [email protected] OR TELEPHONE 01159722620 www.tarrantstoysoldiers.com WEBSITE WWW.TMTERRAIN.COM Figures also available from: FREE POSTAGE IN THE UK. Green Dragon Antiques & Collectables, Seaton, Devon

WHERE TO BUY TOY SOLDIER TSC COLLECTOR ...is currently available from these exclusive outlets

IN THE UK: IN THE USA: TRADITION OF LONDON UNDER TWO FLAGS HOBBY BUNKER SIERRA TOY SOLDIER COMPANY 5a Shepherd Street, 4 St.Christopher's Place. 33 Exchange Street Los Gatos Village Square, London London W1U 1LZ Malden MA 02148 15466 Los Gatos Blvd #108 W1J 7HW Tel: (+44) 0207 935 6934 Tel: (+1) 781 321 8855 Los Gatos Tel: +44 (0) 20 7493 7452 Fax: (+44) 0207 935 6934 Fax: (+1) 781 321 8866 CA 95032 www.undertwoflags.com www.hobbybunker.com Tel: (+1) 408 358 3910 MAISON MILITAIRE www.sierratoysoldier.com 39 Bar Street, ALMA FIGURES MICHIGAN TOY SOLDIER COMPANY Scarborough, 5 Bank Place 1400 E. 11 Mile Rd THE TOY SOLDIER SHOPPE North Yorkshire, Porthmadog Royal Oak MI 48067 7463 Harwood Avenue YO11 2HT Gwynedd Tel: (+1) 248 586 1022 Wauwatosa WI 53213 Tel/Fax: (+44) 01723 362257 LL49 9AA Fax: (+1) 248 586 9934 Tel: (+1) 414 302 1850 www.maisonmilitaire.com [email protected] www.michtoy.com Fax: (+1) 414 302 1851

If you’d like a single issue of the magazine then contact one of these outlets or alternatively call +44 (0)1908 274433 with your credit card details or write to: Guideline Publications, Unit 3, Enigma Building, Bilton Road, Denbigh East, Bletchley, Buckinghamshire, MK1 1HW enclosing a cheque or postal order made out to Guideline Publications (£4.50 UK, £5.50 US, £5.50 EUR, £6.00 CAN & £7.00 ROW). If you’re a retailer who would like to carry Toy Soldier Collector then please call +44 (0)1908 274433 or alternatively you can email [email protected]

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 57 REVIEWS 58 58 NEW RELEASES  TWO Guest reviewer Rob Hendrie looks at our second batch of new metal figures ing avastcircus display. hugely nostalgic aboutsee- wide. There’ssomething circus ringabout9inches to sitonandawooden figures, benchesforthem man, aswellaudience cyclist andcomedypolice- other performers,likeauni- pictured hereandincludes way beyondthe12figures cal’s circusrangeextends produce examplesandDu- animals. performers ratherthan on theskillsofhuman today mostconcentrate animal welfareissuesand last tenyearsbecauseof changed markedlyoverthe market. Circuseshave them onthesecond-hand its priceswellwhenIsee early ‘90swhichhasheld range fromBritainsinthe present. Irememberabig hollow-cast yearstothe and canbetracedfromthe as oldthehobbyitself Circus figuresaretimeless, Circus fi ModelsDucal Many manufacturers still Many manufacturersstill gures tion and has obvious value tion andhasobviousvalue figure isarecentadapta- featured, theBuffaloBill recent releases.Ofthose because acouplearefairly but weincludethem few years, for thelast been around as they’ve category ‘new’ here fitthe ures featured claim thefig- a pointto stretching It would be It wouldbe Clown holdingsmalldog(£8) Clown withdoginhoop(£8:90) (L-R) Clownwithpiglet(£8:90), billboard (£7.60),Ringmaster (£7.60) (L-R) Buffalo Bill(£7.60), Clownwith through a hoop. The hoop is also employed elsewhere – this time a clown has his head through it! Whether tall or small, reflecting pathos like the small clown with the flowers or comedy like the Asset rest of this bunch, they all have an infectious happi- Flower Seller ness about them. Clowns were – and remain – a vital part of any circus. They jolly the audience along and seamlessly buy much- needed time for other acts Thanks to Anne Randall backstage to get ready and for sending us the latest prepared to come on. figure in Asset’s WW2 Painted in gloss, this Home Front range. This range represents traditional flower seller with basket innocence at its cheery best and bucket of flowers and is a welcome break continues this range’s from the parade ground recent theme of street (L-R) Clown with monkey (£8), Clown on and battlefield where most traders and is a really stilts (£8.90), Clown of our collections tend to nice splash of colour with hoop (£8.90) be. Current prices are as in a period associated shown but postage is extra. with grey drabness. Ducal Models has much This lady has a really more to offer, of course, nice stoop of age from the than circus waist upwards, grey hair figures as a tied in a bun at the back browse of and the flow- their web- ers in her site will bonnet demonstrate. comple- ment those of the bunch in her left hand. The single tulip stem in her right The new fl ower seller from Asset as a Wild West character CONTACT hand is a particularly fine figure too. I also like the piece of casting and is well- Ringmaster who has a par- Ducal Models scaled and delicate. (Hor- ticularly spirited pose. But 5 Weavills Road ticulture is not my strong it’s no surprise that it’s the Eastleigh point but I think daffodils, demonstrate the blurred clowns that catch the eye Hampshire violets and carnations are line between who sold SO50 8HQ and this range honours that featured too). what in times of shortages Tel: 0238 069 2119 skilled and proud profes- This is a continuing and where ‘off-ration’ foods www.fort-ducal.co.uk sion with some really nice range of dignity and pur- like sausages and fish and very colourful exam- [email protected] pose and it’s a constant like whalemeat appeared ples. Just looking at them thrill to see that thoughtful side by side ... and patient brings a smile! I especially and knowledgeable ideas customers queued around like the clown dancing with keep coming. Sculpted the block and back again to the piglet and the grumpy- by Alan Caton, the flower get some. looking dog jumping seller stands at 54mm and is £9.50 painted in gloss CONTACT as shown and £5 for a set of castings. To bulk out her Asset Miniatures stall a bit it would be worth 12 Norwood Drive buying an extra bucket and North Harrow L-R) Small Middlesex clown with basket. fl owers (£7.60), HA2 7PE Clown juggling Coming next will be a Tel: 0208 8680422 (£8), Clown in market stall butcher or baggy pants www.assetminiatures.co.uk (£8) fishmonger - which will

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 59 Iron Brigade Command set (CS00249) £29/$49.90 REVIEWS

Iron Brigade Attacking Infantry (CS00248) £38/$65.90 Collectors Showcase New ACW releases

I recently visited Ken seen it uusedsed to good effect Jackson, owner of Maison for otherer types and scales Militaire, to take a look at of figures.es. YYetet for some his new WWI cavalry in reason these ffiguresigures ffeeleel preparation for the article a little aawkward,wkward, bbee it tthehe which appears earlier in facial expressionsxpressions (many this issue. Whilst there, Ken of whichh are over exaggerexagger-- showed me some of the ated) orr the poses, some of new ACW figures from US- which sseemeem unnatural, or based company Collectors the veryy greygrey flesh-tonesflesh-tones Showcase which he’s now which wwouldould bbee bbetteretter stocking. I was intrigued suited toto casualtycasualty figures.figures. by this series as soon as I Now although this might not quite right’ feel to them. I think once within a large heard the rumours of ‘com- sound like I don’t like the The best pieces in the display he will not stand puter generated’ sculpting range, I do, mainly because entire range, in my opinion, out too badly. and was keen to be able to any company which tries are the cavalry figures and The artillery sets are finally see the figures ‘in to launch into the already although the horses are a interesting and worth in- the flesh’. overcrowded 54mm matt little stylised these overall vestigating simply because Unfortunately I must start ACW arena should be work well. The Union of- the cannons are particularly by saying I find this range a applauded. It’s just a real ficer is a possible exception well put together. The fig- little disappointing. Admit- shame that certain figures, due to his slightly exagger- ures that accompany them tedly the idea of computer or rather parts of the fig- ated facial expression but are pretty good, although sculpting is interesting if ures, have that ‘something a few faces are a little over nothing else because we’ve the top. Of the two I’d say

Union Artillery set (CS00253) £75/$129.90

60 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR Confederate Command set (CS00243) £29/$49.90

Confederate Attacking Infantry (CS00242) £38/$65.90

the Confederate team is the ers have always done well, in a diorama you wouldn’t (ABOVE L-R) best as poses here are more yet currently there appears notice. Confederate Cavalry Attacker (CS00246) £35/$65.90 natural, and more action to be a trend to push this All prices are as shown Union Cavalry Ofﬁ cer (CS00251) packed. One issue I did no- too far and possibly these and are certainly compa- £35/$65.90 tice, which seems to affect Union figures could do with rable with similar figures Confederate Cavalry Ofﬁ cer all the Union figures, was the ‘less is more’ approach. from other makers. Overall (CS00245) £35/$65.90 Union Cavalry Attacker (CS00252) the overemphasis of folds The first two infantry I’d say this is a good first £35/$65.90 in the clothing. Showing sets are well posed, and attempt for a new company Union Cavalry Flagbearer (CS00250) wrinkles in clothing using although a couple of the and I’m sure things will £35/$65.90 shading, to help give the figures seem to suffer with improve as the company impression of movement, is the exaggerated expression finds its niche within the CONTACT something the matt produc- problem, I’m sure once lost industry. The Collectors Showcase P.O. Box 18866 Austin Texas 78760 USA Tel: +1 888 886 1103 www.thecollectorsshowcase.com

In the UK: Maison Militaire 39 Bar Street, Scarborough YO11 2HR Tel: 01723 362257 Confederate Artillery set www.maisonmilitaire.com (CS00247) £75/$129.90

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 61 WWII American GI’s REVIEWS

Beau Geste/Honour Bound Various new releases

Our thanks to Ana Donzino no UK prices at the time of in Buenos Aires who sent writing). us pictures of the latest In complete contrast, Beau Geste and Honour and from the same sta- Bound releases. ble, comes Honour Bound Beau Geste has a vast which is Beau Geste’s range of traditional sol- off-shoot company pro- diers which are not seen ducing 60mm figures and often enough in the UK. To equipment compatible with a recent set of World War products made by, among One Turkish Infantry this others, King & Country. Pic- new seven piece Turkish tured against an unpainted Band has been added. Both tank (used here only for sets could be displayed background purposes) is a together. new four figure metal set If your tastes in WWI of American GIs (Set HB16, traditional figures run $125). to the exotic then Beau Honour Bound’s range Geste is the company for of WWII AFVs, made in you. Although strictly in polystone, metal and brass WWI Turkish band marching poses, their WWI is huge and the figure CONTACT range includes Japanese, set here, neatly posed for Beau Geste - New Toy Russians, Greeks, Austrian the purpose, is intended overlook this company’s Soldiers Mountain troops, Belgian for display alongside two output so their websites are Pico 2021 cyclists and dog carts … of their Sherman tanks well worth checking out. (1429) Buenos Aires and many more. It’s rare in Normandy. (HB12b in In the US the main dealer Argentina to see so many ‘world’ earth/olive camouflage is Treefrog Treasures (www. Tel: (5411) 4702 9394 & (5411) troops representing a World and HB12c in plain green. treefrogtreasures.com) 4788 6298 War! Painted in gloss, the Both tanks are $195). With and in UK try Tradition of www.honourbound.com Band is $113 with $21 for so many excellent WWII London or order direct from www.beau-geste.com registered air mail (sorry ranges around it’s easy to Argentina via the website.

62 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR Little Legion From Zulu War to Egypt and Sudan

Standing and kneeling at the ready Gordon Highlanders from Egypt and the Sudan

Friend of the magazine although these have usu- duction as next to Mike Norris of Little Legion ally been wounded etc. so the Black Watch, the got in touch again this this is the first time he has Gordon Highlanders issue with details of three produced this more stand- are one of the world’s Mounted 24th brand new sets he’s just ard of poses. most recognised Foot ofﬁ cer releasing. In fact these sets The Carabineers set and respected are so new Mike hadn’t retails for £28.75 whilst the regiments. even had time to give them 24th Foot officer is £24. With this new codes before letting me see Moving away from the set Mike has them. Zulu conflict Mike’s third produced the famous Little Legion are syn- and final release for this regiment as a six piece in history. onymous with high quality issue is from his lesser- set featuring three stand- Expect to pay £59.50 for traditional gloss toy sol- known Egypt and Sudan ing, and three kneeling at this six figure set. diers, and in particular for range. The figures, or the ready figures all wear- All these new figures are figures from both the Zulu rather regiment, depicted ing the khaki tunics syn- to Mike’s exacting stand- and Napoleonic periods, in this set need no intro- onymous with this period ards and should appeal to and it’s from one of these anybody who prefers gloss that a couple of the new figures. Prices quoted are sets come from. These two plus 10% P&P within the new Zulu sets vary greatly UK, for overseas postage in content. The first depicts rates contact Little Legion three dismounted British direct or visit their website. Carabineers running and all three are wearing the CONTACT familiar dark blue uniform from the period. The sec- Little Legion Toy Soldiers ond set is a single mounted 7 Albert Road 24th Foot officer with pistol Penarth Vale of Glamorgan raised. Little Legion have CF64 1BX done other mounted 24th Tel: 02920 704331 Foot officers in the past Dismounted British Carabineers, Zulu War

TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR 63 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR

Exclusively made in Great Britain 475 square feet of new showroom We carry new Britains and a back and shop opening in early 2005, catalogue of Britains which are all viewing by appointment please available at competitive prices as contact us in advance at the well as a full selection of our ever address below. growing range including the USA & Overseas enquiries welcomed stunning new WWI series.

Vein Cottage, Reapsmoor, Nr. Longnor, Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 0LG Tel/Fax: 01298 687331 Mobile: 07956 276399 Email: [email protected] www.britishtoysoldiercompany.co.uk

Tony Burley Glebe Miniatures NEWBURYTOYS ‘Boy Scout Models’ 54mm Toy Soldiers Toy Soldiers at A pair of 1920 & Gunboats Discount Prices boy Scouts At Collector Friendly Prices! leaders with thumstick, boy Alymer - Dorset - Glebe FREE POSTAGE with staff, both Imperial - Mignot GRAB PEOPLE'S on all orders over £20 in UK in B.P. hats Mail Order ATTENTION MAIL ORDER £16.75 per set (inc. 75p P&P) - SAE for Lists ...and increase your business, with an advert in Toy Soldier Telephone 020 8529 6882 MAIL ORDER ONLY P F Turner, Retreat House, Collector for as little as £15. for free price list or For further information send Dorchester Road, Broadwey, visit us on the web at: SAE or for orders contact: Weymouth, Dorset, DT3 5LN. For more information contact Jennifer Henry Tony Burley, 63 Brookfield Avenue, www.toysoldiers.org Tel:- 01305 815300 on 01908 274433 or email: [email protected] Sutton, Surrey. SM1 3QL email: [email protected] Advertiser Alexanders Toy Soldiers 9 Asset Miniatures 57 Aviation Book Centre 9 Camp Randall 64 Conte Collectibles 5 Conte Collectibles 34/35 Dorset Soldiers 16 ErrolJohn Studios 57 East of India 9 Figarti 16 MARLBOROUGH Frontline Figures 49 military models Glebe Miniatures 64 Irregular Miniatures 16 www.marlboroughtoysoldiers.com King & Country UK 68

Little Legion 16 index Maison Militaire 67 Marlborough Military Models 64 Camp Randall Miniatures Newbury Toys 64 “OVER THERE” – WWI figures Somerset Ltd 57 Contact: [email protected] Tarrants Toy Soldiers 57 Phone: (920)-261-1323 Fax: (920)-262-9164 The British Toy Soldier Co. 64 203 So. Church Street, Watertown, Wisc. U.S.A. 53094 Tradition of London 9 TM Terrain 57 FOR SALE: Tony Burley Boy Scout 64 LARGE 7000 plus private collection modern 54mm full size bands Toy Soldier Show London, The 25 marching parties and mounted. One for one of the Queens Birthday Parade including Kings Troop. List Photographs available. Tel: 01630 685190. W. Britain 2 OUR classified pages are free to advertise in if you’re a collector. If you’ve got something to sell or even something you want to swap then contact us at the address on page 3

64 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR Enjoying what you’re reading? If you’re enjoying this magazine and like what you see then why not subscribe to TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR By subscribing you get the magazine August/September 05 Issue 5 £3.75October/November 05 Issue 6 £3.75 PHALANXHALHHAAALLA delivered direct to your door every two OUT OF October/November 07 Issue 18 £4.50 EAST OFOF INDIA’SINDIIININDNNDINDNDIADDIIIAA NEW ANCIENTTHEIENTIIENIEEENENTNNTT WOODSGREEKSGGRR Welcome to Conté Collectibles’ months – and save money. TSC prides itselff French & IndianNew War Spartans from HELL Conté Collectibles on being by collectors for you, our fellow come crashing in collectors, so we hope you’ll want to read every issue. To subscribe simply fill in the form below, •• Over 20 pages of • Over 20 pages of new releases new releases call us or if you have internet access then •• Ken Osen feature • Lord Nelson feature •• New ECW range • Collecting the Zulu War why not do it online via our secure website:e: •• Cholmondeley Collection• Suffragette figures “ ...... wwe’reere as a serious“ about... we’re collecting as serious as youabout are collecting ...” as you are ...” s 1 9 pages of stunning new figure reviews s Show reports – BMSS & London (June) s S oldiers of the Raj – The Indian Cavalry www.guidelinepublications.co.uk “ ... we’re as serious about collecting as you are ...”

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SUBSCRIBES BY FAX: Or please debit my: VISA / MASTERCARD / MAESTRO / SOLO / ELECTRON PleaseP fax the form with your credit (Please circle) cardc details to: Telephone 01908 270614 account with the sum of £ ...... (From( outside the UK: Account No: +44+ 1908 270614) Expiry Date ...... Security No...... SUBSCRIBES BY TELEPHONE: (last 3 digits on reverse) TelephoneT 01908 274433 (From( outside the UK: Signature ...... +44+ 1908 274433). Subscriptions prices: PleaseP have your credit card details ready. 1 Year (6 issues) SUBSCRIBES VIA THE WEB: UK: £25 Europe: £34 USA: £32 Canada: £34 Rest of World: £40 GoG to www.toysoldiercollector.com Please check this box if you would prefer not to be kept informed of news aand follow the instructions. from Toy Soldier Collector and Guideline Publications. WE’RE AS SERIOUS ABOUT COLLECTING AS YOU ARE FINAL WORD Gerry McQueen makes a plea for better websites specifically aimed at online collectors as well as more ‘honest’ trading via the web.

found myself agreeing would have the opportunity out loud with the letter in to shop around to get a bet- Ithe last issue (Consum- ter price or buy direct from ing Issues, p28) complain- the manufacturer. ing about the ineffective- ness of some websites of What happened both manufacturers and retailers in our hobby. to basic ‘Out of date, poorly put- consumers’ together and full of dead rights? links’ said exactly what I have thought for ages. I don’t understand how I once ordered and it happens because paid for a set on folk who don’t up- a website here date their web- in the UK which sites and trade eventually arrived properly from direct from an them are really missing out American manufac- on good business because turer. I had an additional there are many collectors pile of costs in taxes to like me who buy exclu- a living and I don’t blame these people should be in pay to the postman on sively online. I’m amazed them for that, but where it business to serve custom- my doorstep! The original that it has to be said that goes wrong is that I order ers not themselves. website ‘dealer’ in the UK shopping online after sets and nothing appears Part of that should be to wasn’t interested in my ‘browsing’ on a screen is a for weeks or months and keep in touch with custom- subsequent complaints! million times more natu- there’s no communication. ers via email. I mean, how What happened to basic ral to hundreds of people What’s actually hap- long does it take to send a consumers’ rights based like me than travelling to pening I would guess is line or two over the ether to on the concept of ‘the price shows and fighting my that some back-bedroom keep a punter involved and you see is the price you way through crowds when ‘dealer’ has trawled for updated on the progress of pay’? I get there! orders (and accepted them) a (paid-for) order? So I also think there Come on guys, embrace months in advance of a I don’t see why they can’t needs to be some regula- the technology and bear set becoming available! come clean on their ’sites tion or code of practise the costs of setting up He does this purely so he and promote a set truthful- to get the cowboys off and maintaining proper can count the numbers of ly by making it plain when the web and back on websites because the web orders he’s got and then or- the release date is. If they the ranches where they is not only accessible from der that exact number from did that collectors like me belong! END 85% or more of homes now the manufacturer so he but it’s also a proven fast isn’t left with unsold stock track to increased sales as cluttering up his shelves. GET IN TOUCH! many manufacturers will By using collectors for This page is open to readers to express honest opinions on testify. his own convenience he any toy soldier-related issue. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the magazine or our staff. My other complaint con- rubs them up the wrong cerns websites that offer way and loses future sales Do you have a topical view you’d like to express here? sets for sale that appear because of a shoddy and If so, let us know what you’d like to write about by contacting immediately available. I re- dishonest service. ‘Service’ the editorial ofﬁ ce or emailing [email protected] alise that folk have to make should mean service and

66 TOY SOLDIER COLLECTOR