by Nick Drew | Wed 11 Sep 2013
Iconic JCB backhoe loader gets the scale model treatment
Earlier this week, JCB’s World Headquarters in Rocester, Staffordshire, hosted the launch of a new 1:32nd scale collectors model of one of the most popular JCB machines ever built, the JCB 3C Mark III.
Widely regarded as the most popular JCB machine ever created, the iconic JCB 3C Mark III Backhoe Loader was first introduced in February 1977. Over the next couple of years the machine out-sold all of its competitors combined, and still today represents the unique and distinctive JCB design and colour-ways, taking pride of place in the Story of JCB Visitor Centre at the company’s Headquarters in Rocester, Staffordshire.
2013 marks the launch of a replica 1:32 scale model version of the JCB 3C Mark III as part of the Britains Farm portfolio. Created from all new tooling, the model is the first vintage JCB item to join the company’s expanding Heritage and Collectables range. Britains is JCB’s longest standing Licensee, a partnership stretching back to 1984. A total of over half a million JCB models have been created and sold in the almost 30 year relationship between the two companies.
When it was first launched, the JCB 3C Mark III machine represented the latest evolution of the popular 3C series, and featured higher and more accessible cabs, further optional extras and (from 1978 onwards), the introduction of a JCB 'Powertrain' system, which was to become a significant feature in future machine-building generations. The 3C became a common sight on the road sides and building sites of Great Britain during the late 70's, and also helped to cement JCB's growing presence in European markets during this important period.
“This one-off design has been developed alongside the team at JCB to reflect the heritage and iconic status of the JCB brand and replicate probably the most iconic machine ever created” comments Emilia Lawes, Senior Sales and Marketing Manager TOMY Britains Farm. “A unique opportunity for collectors to own a piece of JCB history, the JCB 3C Mark III will launch in unique packaging to reflect the branding and attention to detail which runs across all Britains Farm models.”
As long term readers of my blog will know, the JCB 3C Mark III is held with great affection by myself, as it was one of these machines that I first took charge of in 1979, as a 17 year old youngster working for Wimpey Plant in Southampton. The machine arrived to me brand new from the dealers, and in a twist of fate, my late father was off-hired from the job, as my machine became his replacement, something he never let me live down for the rest of his life!
The team behind this new model from Britains, have kindly offered the Digger Man Blog two examples to giveaway in a competition. I will be launching this exciting chance to get your hands on a plant & machinery icon over the coming days, so stay tuned to the Digger Man Blog for that.