Take a trip back to more simple times – when the height of fun was a Slinky.
First seen in 1945 (courtesy of mechanical engineer Richard James), it’s essentially a large metal coil – but one that can walk down the stairs as the coils stretch and reform. This Slinky is a newly-launched collector’s edition based on the original, with a black matte coating and a replica vintage box.
Cheap enough for anyone, it sells for £7.95.
Find out more at the Bloomsbury Store website
From tomorrow (July 4th), you can pick up two vintage arcade classics for your Nintendo DS – Space Invaders Extreme and Arkanoid DS.
Both are released by Taito and updated for the modern era. Space Invaders Extreme claims to combine the essence of the original game with ‘a stunning alliance of futuristic graphic design and cutting-edge audio’, as well as offering multiplayer challenges via Wi-Fi connection. Arkanoid DS offers 80s-style block-busting action over 140 levels, again offering multiplayer action over Wi-Fi.
You can find out more about Space Invaders Extreme here and Arkanoid DS here. Official pricing is around £19.99.
Perfect for lovers of board games – or indeed anyone who wants something interesting to stick over their heads when the rain comes – are these Monopoly-themed umbrellas from Brollies of London.
Two available – a mini umbrella with three-section folding frame, taffeta fabric and carbon-plated frame or the Deluxe Walker, which has the same fabric and frame, but also offers an overall span of 49 inches and branded wooden handle.
The design is in keeping with the original game, but if you were more of a Cluedo player, don’t despair – they make those too. No news of a price, you’ll have to drop them a line.
As you might expect from a company called 16 Bit, vintage gaming is very much the focus – with products like the Tetris messenger bag.
It’s just one of a range that also includes PacMan and a Nintendo NES controller, all ideal for carrying anything from a laptop or daily essentials through to your vintage gaming collection (should you wish to carry on a theme).
Two large pockets are available for storage, there’s a strap for your shoulder and the inside has a bright contrast fabric.
Available for 16 Bit’s Etsy store, you can pick one up for $48, which is around £24.
Find out more at the 16 Bit Etsy website
Collectors and fans of the cult Blythe doll may be interested in the Paper Doll Australia shop on Etsy. This seller specialises in items featuring photographs the big eyed doll.
This includes cute button pendant necklaces with an image of Blythe in various guises, which sell for $8 (just over £4). There is also a wide selection of photographic prints of various Blythes with different backgrounds and in colour or black & white. The prints are available in various sizes from 4"x6" up to 8"10", priced by $3.50 (less than £2) to $12 (just over £6).
To view the whole collection, visit the Paper Doll Australia Etsy shop.
A pull-along dog has been a feature of many a childhood, but few are as cool as Brio’s Pull-Along Dachshund.
Scandinavian toy manufacturer Brio first introduced its pull-along Dachshund back in 1953. The original dachshund was just 20cm long, but recently they have introduced a larger version, measuring 50cm long. As well as being a classic design, the dog is ideal for developing motor skills, perception and balance.
Funktion Alley stock the large version for £40. The original small version is available at a much cheaper price with Active Toys selling it for a mere £4.99
