Lesney Matchbox time has returned. Today we examine Lesney Matchbox 12b, the Land Rover Series II. This model entered the range in 1959, remaining until 1965, and yet again shows a trait seen in some early Matchbox vehicles:
That trait being a casting that is a scaled up version of the model it replaced. The past few Matchbox featured here have been along this line of thought, and 12a too was a smaller Land Rover. 12b is more scaled up than other models, and gains more fine line casting detail - this model bridges the gap between mellow 50s castings and sharper 60s models. Scale of this model is larger than the past several, perhaps around 1:60. From all angles, one can imagine this utility rig, from the time when these were workhorses instead of posing accessories or emotional support vehicles, doing duty on the farm or out in the wild:
Front and rear have crisp detail to match the rest of the model, with the finely cast grille at front and detail at rear being nice touches, and the tow hook adds play value:
The base identifies the maker and model, and shows off the knobby black plastic wheels:
This model is fortunate enough to live its nice original Type B5 box, likely dating to 1959-60:
I'm pleased to have this model in my collection, as this early version is a little uncommon, and the real world vehicle is interesting. Pictured with an old dime for scale:
Image of a similar 1:1 from landrovercentre.com:
This must have been one of their least expensive models to produce. Too early for a plastic, removable roof (no?), and no driver. Are my Lilliputians expected to drive themselves?