Linemar Electric Remote-Control Robot (Version A) - Loose (Masudaya, 1955)....

Description

Linemar Electric Remote-Control Robot (Version A) - Loose (Masudaya, 1955). Produced by Masudaya for the Linemar brand and advertised in Japanese newspapers as early as November 1955, this Electric Remote Control Robot represents one of the earliest commercially successful remote-operated tin robots of the postwar era. Finished in sky blue lithographed tin, the robot features a cylindrical head mounted on an octagonal torso, articulated cylindrical arms terminating in red claw hands, and fixed feet anchored to a base plate. Powered by two D-cell batteries and operated via a square tin remote control, the robot is designed to walk forward or backward as its arms swing and its eyes illuminate, an ambitious combination of motion and electronics for the period. This example corresponds to Version A, accompanied by the square tin remote control with lithographed interior, the configuration associated with the larger original box bearing the Linemar logo. The robot is marked "MADE ROBOT" on the chest and "R-35" on the back, and stands approximately 8 inches tall. The robot remains structurally sound, with no broken tabs observed, and its overall form is intact. Surface wear is significant throughout, with widespread scuffing, scratching, and oxidation affecting the lithographed tin body, consistent with age and use. The metal trim also shows significant oxidation. The battery compartment exhibits moderate wear, including oxidation and visible battery corrosion. This item is untested, and no guarantee can be made regarding its working condition. Early Linemar remote-control robots occupy a pivotal place in the evolution of tin lithographed toys, bridging pre-war wind-ups and the electrified, space-age icons that would soon follow. Examples from the mid-1950s, particularly complete with their original tin remote controls, remain enduring centerpieces for collectors focused on the origins of Japanese electronic toy design.

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