This scarce clockwork joke was precision made by the German firm Ideal around 1930. Originally this fake metal matchbox fired sparks when it was pushed open. In the days before safety matches this would have caused quite a fright! Though the mechanism seems to work, the winding rod is worn and no longer fits a key. This could be repaired by a watch repairer, we are selling this as not working. This comes with a replacement key. It also requires a new flint. 
 
This comes with our exclusive OldJokes.co.uk Fact Card on the history of joke manufacturing in Germany.
 
Condition: Fair. Not -working, as mentioned above, has corrosion, wear and some denting to the inner tray.
 
This is a vintage item and is being sold as a collectible, not a toy.