A piece of Ferguson history - which has been described as the most desirable of all the Ferguson collectables - here is a fine example of an original clockwork demonstration Ferguson TE20 in 1/12th Scale.
Originally given to dealers in the late 40's to show how the "Ferguson System" would prevent accidents caused when the plough hit an obstruction (such as a buried rock).
These models were made for Ferguson by Mills Brothers of Sheffield, who were known for their high quality clockwork tinplate railway models.
The model comes in a black wooden box - whose top and bottom are removed to create a "track". Part way along is a block. The clockwork mechanism is operated via the starting handle.
The set has two single-furrow ploughs - one trailed and one mounted. The demonstration involved attaching the trailed plough first and sending the model down the track, the plough share hits the block which causes the front wheels of the tractor to rear up, and in the real world could lead to the tractor flipping over completely.
The mounted plough is then fitted, using the three-point linkage, this time when the plough share hits the block, the front wheels remain firmly planted on terra-firma.
A simple and extremely effective demonstration of perhaps the most important innovations in tractor design to date.
It is anticipated this model will go on sale in 2011, although this is to be confirmed. Another demonstration model, in worse condition, sold in 2009 for £6,400.
UPDATE: Model Sold for £ 6,100
Model Tractors, Classic Farm Models by Universal Hobbies
We also have a Holiday Cottage available