Family collection goes to auction

The Parodi name is synonymous with both Dinky toys and Italy. The family were the sole importers of Meccano and Dinky products into Italy from 1916 until the closure of the Binns Road factory in 1978.

Alfredo Parodi was running an importing business in Genoa when, in 1915, a client showed him a Meccano set which he was most impressed with. Alfredo contacted Frank Hornby who together with his wife visited Signor Parodi and a lifelong partnership began.
The business was handed down through the family, continuing after World War II with Alfredo’s son Edilio at the helm. He was later joined by his two sons Giambi and Arturo in the 1970s. Having a great passion for Dinky toys, Arturo started to form the collection that C&T Auctioneers are now proud to be offering in two dedicated sales, the first of which is scheduled for 19 September at the Spa Hotel, Royal Tunbridge Wells.

The collection consists of nearly 2500 items mostly from the mid-1950s  right through to the late 1970s and covers both French and English Dinky toys.  Also included are many of the vehicles produced: commercials, cars, military, emergency, TV and film and public transport.

For further details please contact either Glen Chapman or Leigh Gotch at C&T Auctioneers on 01233 510050, [email protected] or visit www.candtauctions.co.uk.