Scalextric: A Race Through Time

The world-famous slot car racing game celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2007 with this official book that will appeal to anyone who has ever enjoyed racing in miniature.Fifty years of continuous production is a remarkable achievement for any product, but it's especially remarkable in the fickle toys and games market. Very few toys or games have remained popular for half a century and Scalextric can now stand shoulder to shoulder with evergreens such as Monopoly and Snakes & Ladders in the public's affections.Scalextric all started with 'Fred' Francis, whose company, Minimodels Ltd, was already making mechanical tin toys, most of them powered by his own design of clockwork motor. The range expanded to include tinplate model racing and sports cars using an ingenious keyless clockwork motor, and these were marketed as Scalex and Startex. Then he had the idea that, in place of clockwork, an electric-powered model car system might possibly be a commercial success - and 'tric' was added to the name.This beautifully presented book is packed with fascinating illustrations that capture every facet of Scalextric over the years not just the cars, track and accessories but also period artwork as seen on box sets and in catalogues. A colourful mini-chapter for each of Scalextric's 50 years shows the best new cars, sets, accessories and track novelties, together with world events and motorsport news of the time. Technical changes are detailed, from the charming tinplate designs of the '50s to today's highly detailed miniatures operated by digital control.A true feast of nostalgia, this book will appeal to everyone who grew up with Scalextric.

Author: Roger Gillham
Publisher: J H Haynes
Extra Details: Hardback + jacket 9 x 11 inches tall, 145 Pages,Lavishly illustrated with Colour photos and artworks throughout.