1983 Tomy “Mrs Bunny” Wind-Up Toy – Made in Taiwan

A 1983 Tomy “Mrs Bunny” wind-up toy featuring a brown rabbit in a green dress and white cap, made in Taiwan and part of Tomy’s classic nursery wind-up series.

The Tomy “Mrs Bunny” wind-up toy,produced around 1983, belongs to the beloved line of mechanical animal figures by Tomy Co., Ltd., one of Japan’s most successful toy companies. During theearly 1980s, Tomy outsourced manufacturing to Taiwan for part of its wind-uptoy range, while maintaining quality and charm that defined its brand.

This figure portrays a gentle brown bunny in a lime-green dress with a white mob cap trimmed with a small green bow. Constructed from glossy injection-moulded plastic, it carries the soft, rounded design typical ofTomy’s early 1980s aesthetic. When wound via the side key, the figure walks or “hops” forward with a rocking motion, animated by an internal spring motor.

Stamped “© TOMY Taiwan”, this model was marketed internationally andoften paired with other animal characters such as Mother Goose, Mrs Cow, and Mr. Pig. The series is now sought after by collectors for its pastel styling anddurable construction.

Features –

Measurements: 120 mm high x 50 mm wide x 60 mm deep
Condition: Good – some minor paint and surface wear consistent with age
Markings: “© TOMY Taiwan”

Date Note: Circa 1983; part of Tomy’s global mechanical toy range produced during its Taiwan manufacturing phase.

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Made from the following materials

Hard plastic dolls and toys emerged as a significant innovation in the toy industry during the mid-20th century, revolutionizing the way dolls were designed and manufactured. Hard plastic is a type of thermoplastic, characterized by its durability, lightweight nature, and resistance to breakage. This material became popular for creating dolls, action figures, and various toys due to its versatility and ability to hold intricate details and vibrant colors.

The development of hard plastic allowed for the mass production of toys that were not only affordable but also more resilient than earlier materials like composition or porcelain. As a result, manufacturers were able to produce a wide variety of designs, from classic baby dolls to trendy fashion figures, each with detailed facial features and movable limbs. This material also enabled the incorporation of new techniques, such as molded hair and painted eyes, which enhanced the realism and appeal of the dolls.

Among the earliest forms of hard plastic used in toy manufacturing was **Bakelite**, created in the early 1900s by Belgian chemist Leo Baekeland. Bakelite is one of the first synthetic plastics, made from phenol and formaldehyde. Its properties, including heat resistance and electrical insulation, made it ideal for various applications, including toys. While Bakelite itself is not commonly used in doll-making today, its introduction paved the way for the development of modern plastics in the toy industry.

**Catalin** is another early form of hard plastic that emerged in the 1930s and was often used for creating vibrant toys and dolls. Like Bakelite, Catalin is a thermosetting plastic known for its durability and ability to hold color well. Catalin toys often featured bright, translucent colors and intricate designs, capturing the imaginations of children and collectors alike.

As hard plastic became the standard for many types of dolls and toys, it solidified its place in the industry, leading to the creation of iconic brands and beloved characters. Today, hard plastic dolls and toys continue to be popular, appreciated for their longevity and the nostalgia they evoke. Collectors value vintage hard plastic toys for their craftsmanship and the unique place they hold in the history of toy making.

At our museum, we celebrate the legacy of hard plastic dolls and toys, highlighting their role in shaping the modern toy industry and their enduring appeal across generations.