Matchbox Designer Dies at Age 87

Jack Odell, credited with designing the first Matchbox car and later launching the company with the same name, died earlier this month in London at age 87. He designed the first car in 1952 as a diversion for his daughter, but by 1953 he was producing a line of miniatures that would lead to 3 billion sold.

There is no doubt Matchbox cars have been the beginning of a fascination with cars for countless car buffs, but they’re also classic children’s toys that have stood the test of time. Odell would travel the world to visit automakers so he could copy their designs in minute scale. Eventually, the company he started was sold, more than once, and is now owned by Mattel, which also makes Hot Wheels.

If you have a favorite Matchbox car, tell us about it in the comments below.

Jack Odell, 87, Designer of Matchbox Cars, Is Dead (New York Times)