Mettoy toy and model trains and railways

The Mettoy Co. Ltd was a British toy company that was founded in 1933 by Philipp Ullmann, a Jewish businessman who had fled Nazi Germany. The company was originally based in Northampton, England, and specialized in the production of die-cast toys, such as model cars and trucks.

In the 1940s, Mettoy began producing a line of toy cap guns, which became very popular with children in the UK and around the world. The company also expanded its range of die-cast toys, introducing new models of cars, trucks, and other vehicles.

During the 1950s and 1960s, Mettoy continued to grow and expand its product line, becoming one of the largest toy manufacturers in the UK. In 1953, the company introduced a new line of die-cast vehicles, which were marketed under the name "Corgi". These toys were highly detailed and featured moving parts and other realistic features, and they more... became very popular with children and collectors alike.

In the 1970s, Mettoy faced increasing competition from other toy companies, and the company struggled to maintain its market share. In 1983, the company was acquired by the Hong Kong-based firm Playcraft Toys, and the Mettoy name was phased out.

Mettoy is remembered as one of the most innovative and successful toy makers in British history, and its products are highly collectible among toy enthusiasts. The company's Corgi range of toys are particularly sought after, and many collectors consider them to be among the finest die-cast toys ever produced. less...