Once they had successfully transferred the TV Series into the Mighty Midget range, Benbros began creating new models, the first being No.25 Spyker. In fact from mid-1956 to 1958 Benbros doubled the number in the series. To start with, the new models were representations of vintage cars which in several ways echoed the Charbens Old Crocks series.

 

Benbros based No.25 Spyker on the 1905 Spyker 12/16 HP Double Phaeton made famous in the 1953 film Genevieve. One feature of the 1905 Spyker was the circular radiator grille which became a trademark of the marque.

 

The body of the Spyker model was a single casting rivetted onto a tin-plate base incorporating the mudguards and running boards. Large metal wheels with spokes were fixed directly onto the body with nail-head & crimped axles. On the base 'Benbros' and 'Qualitoy' were cast and 'Qualitoy' and 'Made in England' was also cast on the underside of the body. A prominent steering wheel column slotted through the body into the base. The model measured 45mm long.

 

The first Spyker was painted pink, including the steering column, with a black painted base and red painted wheels including the spare on the side. Two gold-painted headlights were attached at the front.

 

Next there was a pale-cream variation with the same black base, red wheels and nail-head axles.

 

Finally a chrome-plated version was issued, also with black base and red wheels but with round-head & crimped axles. Oddly, the steering column on this chrome version was sometimes unpainted.

 

The Spyker, along with the other two Benbros vintage models, is quite common at auction although the cream variation is rare. The chrome version is the one most often seen.