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Vintage 1960s Battery-Operated Rock 'N Roll Monkey Guitarist – Made in Japan
Description:
Up for sale is a fantastic piece of mid-century mechanical toy history: a vintage 1960s battery-operated Rock 'N Roll Monkey musician. Produced by Alps in Japan, this animated automaton features a wonderful mix of lithographed tin plate elements and cloth textiles.
The character is styled in a vibrant plaid performer's jacket, corduroy pants, and an eye-catching bright green plastic sombrero hat complete with its original top bell. He stands on a highly detailed tin litho stage block holding an illustrated guitar in front of a vintage-style microphone stand.
Condition Notes:
Mechanical Functionality: Untested. This item is being sold as-is, straight out of a collection.
Battery Compartment & Removable Tray: The battery housing and removable terminal insert are remarkably clean. The original "UM-1 1.5V" paper labeling is completely intact and legible. The metal contacts and bridge terminal are bright and clear, showing no signs of historical battery leakage, corrosion, or rust.
Wiring & Internals: A look inside the compartment shows the original factory wiring (blue, red, and white leads) and solder points remain firmly intact.
Cosmetic Shape: The toy is in great vintage display condition. The tin lithography on the stage and guitar shows strong, bright coloration with minimal surface scuffs. The clothing fabric remains structurally intact, and the mohair head has a well-preserved look for its age.
Please review the high-resolution photos closely to assess the exact physical condition and completeness of this classic Japanese tin collectible.
Important Power Note:
Batteries are NOT included.
This toy requires two (2) standard 1.5V D-cell (UM-1) batteries to operate.