Bandai Ford Thunderbird Model Auto Series #701 Tin Lithographed Friction Japan Scale Model w/Box *SOLD*

Bandai Ford Thunderbird Model Auto Series #701 Tin Lithographed Friction Japan Scale Model w/Box  

This piece is a vintage Ford Thunderbird Model Auto Series #701 tin, lithographed, friction scale model vehicle that was manufactured by Bandai of Japan.   

This vehicle has rubber tires and when revved up it travels forward. The rubber tires are still intact, but as per usual with toys of this age they may have petrified, warped and/or cracked. However, we did not notice any problems with the tires. The friction mechanism works as it should. The interior is a highly detailed lithographed design.  The box is in great condition. There are some factory touchups on the front of the hood and on the left side to the white that may not come thru in the pictures. 

This piece is in excellent all original condition with no breaks, restorations, repairs, or touch ups (other than those mentioned). This piece shows the usual patina, fading, dust, chips, scuffs, surface rust, scratches, and wear that are to be expected from age and play. The bottom is very clean. It is approximately 8 ½” L x 3” W. We invite you to view the photos to further determine quality and condition.  

A brief history of Bandai, Japan:   

Bandai Co. Ltd. of Japan was founded in 1950. When Bandai merged with the video game developer and producer Namco, Bandai Co. Ltd. they officially became Namco Bandai Holdings, Inc.  Namco Bandai holds the main toy licenses in Japan to many popular properties including Gundam, Ultraman, Daikaiju, Super Sentai Series, Kamen Rider, and Mazinger. It easy to see that how Bandai became the number one toy producer in Japan and the world’s third largest producer of toys. Early tin plate toys from Bandai such as the one we are offering are highly collectible and can often be hard to find in such great condition because of their fragility.