c.1977 Tomy Wind-Up Baby Bunny with Wheelbarrow

A charming cream wind-up bunny with a pastel pink top, green bow and matching green wheelbarrow — a perfect example of Tomy’s whimsical 1970s design style.

This small plastic wind-up toy, produced by Tomy Company Ltd. during the late 1970s and manufactured in Taiwan, features a seated cream bunny wearing a pink outfit and a green bow. When wound, the bunny’s legs move as though pushing the accompanying pink wheel barrow, which has a green wheel and embossed heart motif on each side. The base of the wheelbarrow is clearly marked © Tomy Taiwan, consistent with Tomy’s overseas production during the 1970s–1980s period. Measuring approximately 80 mm (H) x40 mm (W) x 70 mm (D), this toy captures Tomy’s focus on cute, kinetic miniatures for children.

Tomy, a leading Japanese toy manufacturer established in 1924, was renowned for producing mechanical and wind-up figures in Japan and Taiwan during the post-war era. Taiwanese-made Tomy toys such as this bunny were commonly exported to the U.S. and Europe in the late 1970s, reflecting the company’s growing global footprint and playful design aesthetic.

Features

Measurements: 80 x 60 x 60 mm

Condition: Excellent

Date Note: Date is an estimate based on available research and stylistic features. If you have additional information, please contact usto help update our records.

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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.