Vintage toy speed boat manufactured by the Lindstrom Toy Company of Bridgeport Connecticut, circa 1933 or earlier; the Lindstrom company having been founded in 1913, made quality tin wind-up toys until World War II when they went out of business.
This is the more rarer version of several different variations of boats they made, because it has a driver and seating compartment, rather than a covered engine—much more desirable. Also, it is the larger 12″ example. It is also COMPLETE, which is almost impossible to find because it is often lacking the outboard; and if it is intact, it is usually rusted out and inoperable.
This toy works great (I wouldn’t put it in water—but you could. See operational video upon request); and it is in completely original condition, lithography, and hand paint. The figure is original and firmly in place. Markings on top include “Lindstrom’s Outboard Motor” and “Made in U.S.A.”
It operates by winding up the attached clockwork key and releasing in the water. There is the odd minor dent or manufacturing crease to the side, which negligibly affects the appearance (see images).
Designed predominantly in colors of red, yellow, and some black, the boat is bright and NOT faded and has a lovely surface. For the toy or nautical collector, this item of folk art would make a lovely addition to an Americana collection.
Dimensions:
12.5″ long x 3 1/4″ high x 3″ wide
Provenance: Recently acquired from a prominent West Coast toy collection
See my other listings of vintage toys.
Note: After 40 plus years of dealing and collecting toys, I am justly qualified to guarantee and present the authenticity of antique and vintage toys and children’s playthings; important considering the fakes and reproductions in the marketplace. My toys operate properly and are as stated and accurately described.
it would behoove an enterprising collector, dealer, or decorator to take advantage of the opportunity to buy as many of the vintage tin toys that I have listed for sale; it would create an immediate quality collection, as most of these toys came, either from a long time premium California collection or from my own shelves. It would take quite some time and effort to accumulate toys this clean, authentic, original, operable and in excellent condition.