Carette Tin Clockwork Ocean Liner German Ship Toy & Midcentury Torch Cut Steel Sailboat for Sale

Carette Tin Clockwork Ocean Liner German Ship Toy & Midcentury Torch Cut Steel Sailboat

This tin, hand-painted, windup, clockwork ocean liner was manufactured by Georges Carette & Co. of Nuremberg, Germany.  The small sailboat has no markings.

When wound with a key the propeller turns. All clockwork works as it should. Both pieces are in rough shape, but the oceanliner would make a wonderful candidate for restoration.

Both pieces are in original condition with no breaks, restorations, repairs, or touch-ups. This piece shows the usual patina, fading, dust, chips, scuffs, surface rust, scratches, missing accessories, and wear that are to be expected from age and play. The ocean liner is approximately 13” L and the small sailboat is  3 ½” L. We invite you to view the photos to further determine the quality and condition.    

A brief history of Georges Carette & Co. of Nuremberg, Germany:  

Georges Carette & Co. was founded in 1886 in Nuremberg, Germany by Georges Carette with the backing of Gebruder Bing.  

Carette specialized in mechanical tin boats, cars, street cars, model trains and trains. Many of Carette’s toys were lithographed. For those that don’t know, Carette toys are treasured for their beautiful multi-colored lithography and detail.  They were produced in large quantities based on production numbers, yet just don’t survive; a testament to their play value for kids.  

In 1917, Carette as a French citizen was deported from Germany, thus closing the firm.