Mattel took the world by storm when they revolutionized the toy car industry by introducing Hot Wheels in 1968. While Mattel did not invent the genre, they quickly became the industry’s front-runner with their stylish, speedy cars. They also set the standard by ensuring that the Hot Wheels would grip onto their plastic tracks, allowing […]
Wheeljack’s Lab – Vintage Toy Blog
Follow this blog for the new, the unusual, the rare and cool Generation 1 G1 Transformers toys. Reviews, news, toy resources, galleries, unboxing, opinions and personal reflections on vintage toys.
When Were the Original Planet of the Apes Action Figures Made?
Since its inception, the Planet of the Apes franchise has captivated audiences with its thought-provoking themes and captivating storytelling. But did you know that it also significantly impacted the world of toys? This article explores the fascinating history of the original Planet of the Apes action figures and their introduction to the market. The Original […]
When Were the Original Matt Mason Action Figures Made?
When it comes to vintage toys, few can match the allure and nostalgia of action figures from yesteryears. One notable name in the realm of action figures is Matt Mason, an astronaut who captivated children’s imaginations in the 1960s. In this article, we delve into the history of the original Matt Mason action figures and […]
When Were the First Lost in Space Action Figures Made?
For vintage toy enthusiasts, the allure of classic action figures is unmatched. These small but mighty collectibles have played an integral role in shaping the world of pop culture. Today, we uncover the origins of one iconic line: Lost in Space action figures. Delve into the history as we unravel when the first Lost in […]
When Were the First Hot Wheels Made?
Hot Wheels has enthralled generations of children and collectors for over five decades with its iconic die-cast cars. With their vibrant colors, intricate details, and commitment to innovation, the cars have become more than just toys—they represent a passion for speed, design, and limitless imagination. In this article, we embark on a journey through the […]
When Were the First Great Garloo Toys Made?
One of the more popular toys from the 1960s was the Great Garloo. This fun-filled toy monster was at the top of the list for many 60s children. As vintage toy collectors, one of the first things we need to know about a toy is when it was made. Understanding a toy’s history can provide […]
When Were the First Godzilla Action Figures Made?
Godzilla took the world by storm in 1954 on the big screen. Ishirō Honda directed the first Godzilla film. Since then, the franchise has only grown, with countless movies, comics, and action figures. So, when were the first Godzilla action figures made? The First Godzilla Action Figure by Marusan Marusan, a Japanese company, first introduced […]
When Were the First G.I. Joe Action Figures Made?
G.I. Joe is a name recognized worldwide, let alone by the vintage toy collecting community. You don’t have to be a vintage toy expert to see that G.I. Joe was one of the most popular toys in America. The line, produced by Hasbro, revolutionized the action figure industry. G.I. Joe has a rich history, so […]
The Ten Most Expensive Hot Wheels Toy Cars
Mattel changed the landscape of die-cast toy cars in the 1960s when they introduced trackable vehicles that zipped around on Hot Wheels. Before then, Matchbox had a firm grip on the market, having created 1/64th scale cars for years. To face the competition, Mattel made certain that their new Hot Wheels would be of a […]
When Were the Original Captain Action Action Figures Made?
Captain Action’s Past Captain Action, an iconic action figure, has been admired by toy enthusiasts and collectors for decades. If you’ve ever wondered where this versatile toy hero came from, you’ve come to the right place. Our exploration of the original Captain Action begins in the era of bright-color television, pop art, and exciting space […]