Welcome to the world of White Knob Wind Up Toys (WKWs). Their diversity, availability,and price make these small, ingenious mechanical wonders one of the most collectible toys on the market today. Since the manufacturing of WKWs began in the 1970s, they have hopped, waddled, swam, danced, flipped, and rolled into hearts and homes throughout the world. Never has any toy been more plentifully accepted and enjoyed by both children and adults alike. This book, which is as irresistible as the WKWs it features, includes over 275 full-color photographs, a price guide, and the information you need to either start or continue building a wonderful collection. AUTHOR: Robert Birkenes has been a dedicated modern and antique toy collector for over 30 years. His great passion lies in discovering, researching, collecting, and enjoying toys worldwide, of all kinds and descriptions. It was natural that he was attracted to the inexpensive and creative white knob wind up toys when they were first introduced in the 1970s. In the world of toy collectors, the overlooked white knobs are a relatively new and undiscovered toy, one that Birkenes believes will grow strongly in importance and collector value over the years. Robert Birkenes received his B.F.A. Degree in Advertising at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. His career as an award-winning advertising Creative Director spanned the continent with upwardly mobile positions in Chicago, Los Angeles, Boca Raton, Florida and Mexico City. He has conceived and executed comprehensive advertising campaigns for General Motors, United Air Lines, Sears, Kraft Foods, Kellogg's, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Budget Rent-A-Car and dozens of other high-profile international corporations. His strong graphic background, combined with his drawing and painting talent, has earned his scarce individual art works a place in many public and private art collections throughout North America. As a consultant, Birkenes currently advises a broad portfolio of small, medium and large companies on their creative advertising campaigns, as well as working full speed ahead on a new series of books and videos on collectible toys and related subjects.
