For many toy collectors a monkey playing cymbals vintage toy is a treasured find to add to their toy collections.
The First Cymbal Playing Monkey
Introduced in the 1950s by the Japanese toy company, Daishin C-K, the Musical Jolly Chimp became a huge success. During the following decades several toy manufacturers produced variations of the fun loving little chimp. Although the monkeys made by each company wore distinct clothing and had different facial features, each one clanged their cymbals to the delight of their young owners.
The Musical Jolly Chimps, and most of the furry little monkeys that followed under different names, are more than percussion playing musicians. Just tap one on the head while it is banging its cymbals and watch as the mechanical monkey's eyes bulge out as he bares his teeth while screeching like a very angry monkey. In a few seconds, the chimp settles down and happily returns to his cymbal playing. There are actually many people that believe this happy looking vintage toy may be the creepiest toy ever made once they see the screeching monkey's face.
Other Cymbal Playing Monkeys
Following closely behind the popularity of the Musical Jolly Chimp, other Japanese toy manufacturers such as Kuramochi Shoten and the Yano ManToy Company, as well as companies in the United States and Hong Kong, quickly began producing their own versions of the much loved toy. There were battery operated monkeys and wind up ones. Some swayed to and fro as they happily banged their cymbals and other, more modern versions, learned to do flip flops.
These vintage toys are known by many names. Several of the more popular ones include:
- Magic Monkey
- Charley Chimp
- Wind-up Monkey Playing Cymbals
- Pepi Tumbling Monkey with Cymbal
- Musical Monkey with Clashing Cymbals by Clockwork
- Z Wind Ups - Monkey With Cymbals
Charley Chimp
Although the outfit Charley the Chimp is wearing is different from the original clothes of the Musical Jolly Chimp, the toy is a close replica. Charlie also has the same movements and sounds as the Daishin Company toy. This vintage replica is available at CharleyChimp.com.
Magic Monkey
A newer version of the classic primate, Magic Monkey plays his cymbals while he scoots along the floor. Complete with chimp noises, this plastic faced monkey is available at StockCalifornia.com.
Pepi the Tumbling Monkey with Cymbals
Made by Yano Man Toys in the 1960s, Pepi the Tumbling Monkey plays his cymbals while doing his acrobatic feats.
Clockwork Musical Monkey with Clashing Cymbals
Often sold as part of a set of three musical monkeys, these cute little wind-ups play their instruments as they sway from side to side. Made by the Clockwork Company the toys are made of tin and fake fur with plastic faces. You can view the monky playing cymbals at Worthpoint.com.
Z Wind Ups - Monkey With Cymbals
A modern take off on the collectible vintage toy, this translucent Monkey with Cymbals is a wind-up toy that marches along playing his cymbals. To view this toy visit the California Creations.
Where to Find a Monkey Playing Cymbals Vintage Toy Online
Vintage Cymbal playing monkeys are available from antique shops and online auction sites like eBay. These toys come and go, so check back frequently to catch them when they're available.
An Unusual Monkey Toy Appreciated by Many
Whether you are a toy collector or not, having a monkey playing cymbals vintage toy in your home is sure to bring many smiles to those you love.
