Recognition model, German medium tank PZKW 4 : John Wood, Sydney

Hollowcast brass/copper alloy model of a German Panzerkampfwagen IV, representing the basic outline and armament of the tank, in about 1:36 scale, with no moving parts. The legend 'GER MED TK PZKW 4' is cast into the lower rear of the body. The guns - machine guns and main barrel - are formed from wire. The model has been finished in a medium green paint.

Hollowcast recognition model of German medium tank PZ KW 4. Approximately 1:36 scale. This is one of six models which were given to John Wood as a child by Petty Officer Ern Measor, who was engaged to Wood's cousin. Measor served aboard HMS 'Speaker' (a Bogue-class escort aircraft carrier transferred to the Royal Navy under the Lend-Lease program, and part of the British Pacific Fleet), which docked in Sydney in late 1945. The models were about to be dumped due to lack of relevance, but Measor offered them to John Wood, who accepted them gladly, as there was a lack of toys available in Australia. He was originally given about 20 models but he later shared them with Measor's son.

The manufacturer, H A Framberg and Co of Chicago was an established producer of light fittings when, in 1942, they were awarded a contract to mould and supply military recognition models to the United States military. They supplied ships (in 1:1200 and 1:500 scale), and land vehicles in 1:36 scale. Once their contract was expired, they returned to light manufacture, including the supply of miliary searchlights.

However, the moulds were then leased to an ex-employee, Mr. Dale, who had left the company (presumably with a newly acquired expertise) and started producing models, but with changes. Dale modified the original moulds by making separate items, such as turrets, which allowed a degree of articulation. He also added axles and wheels, thus producing a toy which he could market and which embodied greater playability. They were sold under the name of the Dale Model Company and it is in this iteration that these models are best known. Dale was also based in Chicago. However, this particular example is an original Framburg production.