Multum models

silverfoxsteam · Multum models

The range of Multum-branded plastic-based toy steam accessories were made by Ward & Goldstone Plastics Ltd of Tottenham Court Road, London.

Does anyone know when and for how long they were made?
Did they produce any other toys?

The tools are very similar to J & L Randall's SEL and/or Merit range and I wonder if this is more than co-incidence. I would guess the Randall tools were the earlier as they were allegedly the first to utilise plastic (Bakalite), a material that found much greater use in the manufacture of electrical components. Indeed, Ward & Goldstone's main (and I believe, on-going) interest is in the electrical component supply industry. Is it possible that Multum tools were copies or did they take over and modernise the Randall items?

I'd be interested in any thoughts, opinions or even known facts!!!!

silverfoxsteam

Any ideas anyone?

anyone?...

Mamod Collector

I think you've about covered all the known facts Steve
The accessories do look very similer but the quality of the SEL accessories is much better
The only thing I have found which both companies share is the colour of the Milling machine and circular saw box
I would think you are right Steve in saying Multum copied SEL Smile

silverfoxsteam

Thanks Mike - it would be great to have some dates. My understanding is that the SEL/Merit branded toy steam products ended in 1965, but the Merit brand of toys (particularly the OO trackside accessories) certainly contiued long after. I wonder if the Merit brand was bought up or did Randalls continue to own it?

Is there anything on the Multum items you've got to indicate when they were made? The illustrations on the boxes look 50's to me which would put them contemporary with SEL/Merit rather than later! What do you think?

John Chapman

The design of the Multum motor, with its field winding coil, would be much more typical of the forties/fifties rather than later when permanant magnet DC motors were pretty well universal. I recall that I had a Multum motor and lineshaft, together with an SEL Junior and SEL saw around 1957/8.

One intersting thing about the field winding Mutum motor is that it is non reversing - reverse the battery connections and it goes the same way.

Spokesmann

I have a boxed multum saw if you need some images Stephen, this could be a very good thread indeed. Images chaps!

silverfoxsteam

silverfoxsteam