986 Thornycroft Mighty Antar with Propeller (1959-61)

Bruce

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Very nice period photos of the Mighty Antar in action. To me, at least, it is still a fascinating piece of equipment that just looks the part. I remember getting my first one as the tank transporter, in 1956, and being very impressed with it. I finally took that plunge you were talking about, and was able to locate and buy a very nice Mighty Antar with Transformer......a couple of years ago. It is quite impressive to get all three versions out together on a table.Best regards, Terry

Those are really great pictures, Bruce, a wonderful and important addition to this thread. And thanks for the clear representation of the upper packing pieces (still puzzling why it's upside down). With this model Meccano expressed their interest in maritime matters, as so frequently and extensively confirmed in Meccano Magazine. In my childhood years I lived near the port of Rotterdam and shared the same spectacular views as the Meccano / Dinky Toys designers must have experienced in Liverpool and Merseyside, which undoubtedly led to products like this. Finally, browsing books and the internet I cannot (yet) find anything about the 'Scimitar' brand / manufacturer. Did any one? Kind regards, Jan

Greetings Adrian Further to your fine post on 22 December 2014 Post #6 above, advising the correct manner in which the upper cardboard insert is placed, I wish to apologise that the photograph in my last post apparently continues the error of my ways with the insert still incorrectly placed! Unfortunately, I have not re-photographed my model since August 2014; however, you have my assurance that the upper cardboard insert has now been correctly positioned inside the box for the first time since 1999! One thing I have noticed, is that correctly positioned, the insert sits a fraction above the bottom half of the box the cause possibly being the propeller itself. I previously had no problems when the insert was inserted upside down with the little cardboard ring keeping the larger cardboard insert in place and not flopping around. Is it possible my propeller is a reproduction as it does not have the Scimitar transfer or any markings underneath and it may be a fraction taller. Also my model did not have the usual plastic ropes holding the propeller onto its pallet and then the trailer, instead very old, and what looked like hardened, black rubber bands. These unfortunately disintegrated over a decade ago. Kind regards Bruce (150) 20160924/988/1839

A huge ship's propeller to be transported through the Mersey Tunnel to Cammell Laird in Birkenhead: