Behind the scenes at internationally renowned Vectis Toys Auctioneers in Teesside, where buyers and sellers from all over the world come to trade every toy imaginable.
Scouting for Toys airs Sundays, October 6-20 at 1 p.m. on WXXI-TV.
Iconic American doll brand Barbie goes head-to-head with UK rival, Sindy. Teddy bear expert Jo receives an elderly bear and Mick looks at toy trains with grandson Charlie.
On Sunday, October 6 episodes include:
Ep. 1 Declan’s Star Wars – The Teesside toy auctioneers prepare for a major sale of TV and film memorabilia, and pride of place is given to a vast Star Wars collection.
Ep. 2 Graham Hamilton Matchbox Sale – Graham Hamilton has collected every Matchbox model car released between 1961 to 1982: amassing more than 2000 vehicles, many of them incredibly rare.
Ep. 3 Toy Theatres – The auctioneers try to value a remarkable set of toy theatres – some more than 150 years old with expert advice from Pollock’s Toy Museum.
Ep. 4 Lego – As Lego enthusiast David prepares to release some of his prized sets at auction, Andy and Dave are hoping to pick up some sought after construction boxes for their joint collection.
On Sunday, October 13 episodes include:
Ep. 5 Charlie Bears – Teddy bear expert Jo receives a large collection of Charlie Bear teddies from a single seller, including some very rare bears.
Ep. 6 Meccano – A huge consignment of Meccano arrives from a single seller. It represents a lifetime’s passion and has been well played with but painstakingly restored.
Ep. 7 Antique Dolls – A vast haul of antique dolls arrives in the saleroom, passed on by the husband of a deceased artist. Other highlights include Star Wars toys and a passionate Transit van man.
Ep. 8 Mr. Timpo – Miniature plastic figurine collector Michael Maughan is selling some of his impressive Timpo collection.
On Sunday, October 20 episodes include:
Ep. 9 Karl Lagerfeld – A much sought after, Karl Lagerfeld teddy bear is sent to auction, creating a buzz of excitement among staff and collectors alike.
Ep. 10 Barbie – Iconic American doll brand Barbie goes head-to-head with UK rival, Sindy. Teddy bear expert Jo receives an elderly bear and Mick looks at toy trains with grandson Charlie.