Toy OTD: Schylling Rover The Space Dog Wind-Up (Reproduction)

I love the original 50s Japanese tin toy, so it's great that Schylling released such a nice replica of it. If you're expecting an exact replica, though, be warned - there's a lot of differences in this design from the first version.

The replica has an antenna - it looks great, but the Yoshia toy doesn't have one. A lot of the new litho details seem bolder and simplified as well. Some vents on the Yoshia version seem to be die-cut, while the new dog's are replaced with lithos. The tail has been altered from a metal rod to a more flexible spring, and the chest now sports a "Rover" nameplate. I'm assuming that these tweaks are to help protect collectors from potential fraud - I suppose I'd be more of a purist if I'd grown up with Rover but, I think Schylling improved on the original!

The modern Rover comes in two colorways - red and silver. The new litho quality seems a little bit glitchy, and the flint element doesn't spark all that much when it's operating. Otherwise, it's a great toy!

The packaging is appropriately retro, with period box art and no cellophane window. Since it's a limited edition, it also comes with a certificate of authenticity.

I can't find the fifties version for sale, but the Schylling Rover is easy to get at a very reasonable price. Bonanzle.com sells it for $12.50 + 8.00 shipping. Snap it up!

Toy OTD: Schylling Reproduction Flash Gordon Rocket Fighter (2004)

I've never been a purist in terms of original toys vs. "repros" - if it's well-made, I'll happily buy a reproduction (of course, it helps if the value of the original is in the ionosphere). Still, this sparking friction toy is a great example of how good a replica can be!

It's huge - 12" long - and looks a great deal like the real thing (I can't be the best judge, as I've never seen the original toy in person). It sparks and rolls around like the real thing, and the colorful artwork's terrific! It's great to be able to own one without having to shell out thousands of dollars.

Indeed - you can still buy one at robotisland.com for $16.95 + shipping!