People often say that “the past is in the past,” but here at Wheeljack’s Lab, we’re all too familiar with the alluring nostalgic appeal of vintage toys. Today, we’re turning back the clock to 1998, the year of the original Small Soldiers action figures and film. The Small Soldiers Film In 1998, the world was […]
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 Sky Commanders Action Figures Made?
In the world of vintage toys, there are few names as respected as Kenner. Throughout its history, Kenner has introduced countless action figures and playsets that have captured the imaginations of millions. One of these iconic toy lines, often underappreciated yet immensely impactful, is the Sky Commanders. When did the original Sky Commanders action figures […]
When Were Original Six Million Dollar Man Action Figures Made?
One of the most well-received television series of the 1970s was The Six Million Dollar Man. The show, featuring the bionic government agent, Steve Austin, was extremely popular amongst children as well as adults. The show’s reception inspired the toy industry’s first successful television-inspired toy line. When were the original Six Million Dollar Man action […]
When Were the Original SilverHawks Action Figures Made?
The SilverHawks toy line, based on the animated series of the same name, is a beloved piece of toy industry history. The original SilverHawks action figures carry a sense of nostalgia for many people. They also have an intriguing history. Let’s take a look at how the SilverHawks began! The SilverHawks Animated Series SilverHawks is […]
When Were the Original Shogun Warriors Action Figures Made?
The early 1970s were a time of struggle for the toy manufacturing company Mattel. A rough financial decade forced the company to rethink its strategy and take a bold, innovative risk. They decided to try licensing Japanese toys for the American market. This decision would alter the course of Mattel’s destiny and shape an entire […]
When Were the Original She-Ra Princess of Power Toys Made?
She-Ra: Princess of Power was an excellent addition to the Masters of the Universe toy franchise in the 1980s. Catering to young girl audiences as well as young boys, Mattel’s She-Ra and He-Man toy lines remain popular collectibles to this day. When did the original She-Ra Princess of Power action figures come about? Inspiration for […]
The Ten Most Expensive Predator Collectibles
20th Century Fox introduced the world to the Predator in 1987, with a film set in the forests of Central America. By combining the popularity of Arnold Schwarzenegger with the imagination of Stan Winston’s designs, the Predator quickly became a hit. While the original film received a sequel in 1990, the theaters were not where […]
When Were the Original Sgt. Rock Action Figures Made?
The Original Sgt. Rock Action Figures In the realm of vintage toy collectibles, the original Sgt. Rock action figures hold a unique place. Brought to life by Remco in 1982, these figures were based on a beloved DC Comic book character, Sgt. Rock. These plastic soldiers testify to the growing popularity of military-themed action figures […]
When Were the Original Secret Wars Action Figures Made?
The Secret Wars toy line brought a new approach to toy marketing in the industry’s booming era of the 1980s. The beloved toy line has become a favorite of many, with its exciting backstory, history, and loveable characters. As with many toy lines from this time, the history behind the original Secret Wars action figures […]
When Were the Original Secret of the Ninja Action Figures Made?
Unearthing the vibrant history of vintage toys can be an adventure filled with unexpected turns and thrilling revelations. Today, we’re turning the spotlight onto a lesser-known but beloved chapter in the annals of toy history: the original Secret of the Ninja action figures. The Original Secret of the Ninja Action Figures Manufactured by Remco, the […]