Linemar Marx Tin Lithographed Windup Mechanical Fire Chief Crazy Action Fire Truck *SOLD*

Linemar Marx Tin Lithographed Windup Mechanical Fire Chief Crazy Action Fire Truck 

This is a hard-to-find tin, lithographed, windup, mechanical Fire Chief crazy action fire truck that was manufactured in Japan by Louis Marx & Co. of New York City, New York under their Linemar brand.          

When wound up this working fire truck moves back and forth with crazy action while the fire chief’s head moves back and forth. What is really special about this one is that it comes with the often-lost rubber fire hat. The fire hat shows signs of its age as it has petrified and cracked as most old rubber tends to do. 

This piece is in great all 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. This is approximately 5 ½” L x 3 ½” W. We invite you to view the photos to further determine quality and condition.   

A brief history of Louis Marx & Company of New York City, New York:              

1919 – 1979

Founder: Louis Marx

Specialty: Louis Marx and Company was an American toy manufacturer in business from about 1919 to 1980 founded in New York City by Louis & David Marx. Its products were often imprinted with the slogan, “One of the many Marx toys, have you all of them?” Arguably, Marx was the most well-known toy company through the late mid-20th century. Best known for their lithographed tin windup toys Marx was also one of the big four among American electric train manufacturers. Interestingly, Marx also successfully revived the Yo-Yo in 1928; it sold well even through the Depression.    

Linemar Co. Inc. or more simply Linemar toys was the trade name under which Marx toys were manufactured in Japan, then sold in the United States and other countries. The reason to make Linemar toys in Japan was to keep costs down. Under the Linemar name, Marx produced The Flintstones and other licensed toy vehicles (Linemar Tin Toys 2015). The Linemar line also included airplanes that were produced in the colors of KLM, Pan Am and other airlines.