When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Item Description:Up for sale/sale is a beautiful, highly collectible 1950s Battery-Operated "Bubble Blowing Monkey" tin-and-plush toy, manufactured by the renowned Alps Co. in occupied/post-war Japan.This charming piece of toy history has been tested and is in remarkable mechanical shape for its age. Unlike many vintage automata found today, the primary internal mechanics function perfectly.Condition Details:Mechanical Functionality: Excellent! When switched on, the internal motor hums to life, the arm smoothly lifts the bubble wand up to the mouth, and the internal diaphragm/bellows blows air perfectly through the mouth opening.Electrical / Lighting: The toy is powered by two standard D-cell batteries (labeled UM-1 inside). One of the blue glass eyes lights up perfectly when active. The other eye is currently unlit (likely a burned-out miniature bulb or a loose wire connection inside the head).Battery Compartment: Absolute collector quality. The internal battery box is pristine, exceptionally clean, and free of any battery acid leakage, rust, or corrosion. The brass contact tabs are bright and intact.Cosmetics & Accessories: The lithographed tin base retains great color and shine with minor age wear. The monkey comes complete with its original dark brown plastic dipping bowl, which is frequently missing from these sets. The plush faux fur shows standard vintage aging, with some typical thinning and lifting around the shoulder/neck area. The original plaid vest and bowtie remain vibrant.A Note for Collectors:Because the bellows push air flawlessly and the main gears move smoothly, this toy is a prime candidate for a simple bulb replacement to bring it back to 100% full cosmetic operation.Please review all high-definition photos carefully, as they serve as the definitive description of the toy's cosmetic condition.Shipping & Handling:The toy will be packed with extreme care, using plenty of bubble wrap to protect the delicate arm mechanisms and plastic face plate during transit. Shipped quickly from a smoke-free home.
