Alps Shoji ca. 1945-1952 Occupied Japan Celluloid Tin Litho Windup “Travelling Boy” with Suitcase for Sale

Alps Shoji ca. 1945-1952 Occupied Japan Celluloid Tin Litho Windup “Travelling Boy” with Suitcase

This is a windup celluloid articulated “Travelling Boy” with a tin hand-stenciled suitcase that was manufactured by ALPS/Alps Shoji Ltd. of Japan from 1945-1952 in Occupied Japan.

When wound this little traveler shuffles forward with his suitcase. Arms are attached, the strings are in great condition, and the celluloid is free from cracks and dents. We believe the key to be original.

This piece is in great original condition with no breaks, restorations, repairs, or touch-ups. This piece shows the usual patina, fading, dust, chips, scuffs, surface rust, scratches, missing accessories, and wear that are to be expected from age and play. This is approximately 6 ½” H. We invite you to view the photos to further determine quality and condition.

A brief history of ALPS/Alps Shoji Ltd. of Japan: 

1948 – 1970s

Founder: Katsutaro Kataoka

Alps Shoji Ltd., commonly known these days as Alps Electric/Alps Alpine (ala Alpine Stereos), is a Japanese multinational corporation that specializes in the manufacturing of electronic components and devices. Founded in 1948 by Katsutaro Kataoka, Alps Electric initially focused on the production of electronic components such as switches and potentiometers, and then diversified to include producing some of the better-quality Japanese toys throughout the post-war years producing a range of mechanical and electronic toys, including tinplate toys, battery-operated toys, and mechanical dolls. Some of their most famous creations included toy robots, musical toys, and realistic-looking mechanical animals. However, in the 1970s as the company evolved and shifted its focus primarily to electronic components and devices, its involvement in the toy industry diminished.