We, as diecast collectors, can sometimes be somewhat blaise about our hobby and our collecting habits. I don't know whether I am one of the few, but I had never heard of Kemlow until recently, and their story is absolutely fascinating.

Who Was Kemlow?

Kemlow was a British toy company that operated from the 1950s through the 1970s. While they never achieved the fame of Dinky or Corgi, they produced some truly interesting and unique models that are now highly sought after by collectors in the know.

What Made Kemlow Special?

Kemlow toys were known for several distinctive features:

Unique Mechanisms

Many Kemlow models featured innovative play mechanisms, including spring-loaded parts and clever moving components that went beyond simple rolling wheels.

Unusual Subjects

While other manufacturers focused on popular cars, Kemlow often chose more unusual vehicles - construction equipment, specialized trucks, and even some fantasy vehicles.

Quality Construction

Despite being a smaller manufacturer, Kemlow maintained high production standards with good die-casting and attention to detail.

Notable Models

Some of the most sought-after Kemlow models include:

• The spring-loaded cement mixer truck
• Various construction vehicles with working parts
• A series of delivery trucks with opening rear doors
• Several military vehicles

Why Are They Rare Today?

Several factors contribute to Kemlow's rarity:

• Smaller production runs compared to major manufacturers
• Many models had moving parts that were prone to breaking
• Less brand recognition meant fewer were preserved
• The company's relatively short lifespan

Collecting Kemlow Today

Finding Kemlow models today requires patience and knowledge. They rarely appear in mainstream auction houses and are more likely to turn up at specialist toy fairs or estate sales.

Prices can be quite reasonable for such rare items, mainly because many collectors simply don't know about them. This makes Kemlow an interesting area for collectors looking to explore beyond the usual suspects.

Final Thoughts

Kemlow represents the diversity and innovation that existed in the British toy industry during its golden age. While they may not have achieved household name status, their models offer a fascinating glimpse into the creativity and ambition of smaller manufacturers.

Next time you're browsing a toy fair, keep an eye out for the Kemlow name – you might discover a hidden gem!