c.1959 Yonezawa, Batt. Op. (TV) Space Explorer Robot in Original Box
One of the most unusual late-1950's Japanese tin litho robots is Yonezawa's battery operated "Space Explorer"*. It has a complex battery operated mechanism and every action works beautifully! The toy comes complete with its scarce original box. Closely resembling a television set in its "retracted" state it undergoes a complex metamorphosis while working. This includes walking, telescoping (like a turtle coming out of its shell), flashing lights, raising/lowering its chest plate, and making lots of noise. These are listed in more detail below. It was produced in three colors with this red version being slightly more difficult to find. Another variation had the button located on top of the head. This one has the button located in its lower back. The scarce box features an extra-terrestrial illustration of the Space Explorer in the process of....exploring! His retracted buddy can be seen in the background. *The "Space Explorer" name was used by Yonezawa, as well as other companies for several different space toys. Size: 7¾" tall (retracted) Body (3½" x 4½"). Sold: Feb. 2014
Price Sold: $ 1344
