John Deere Precision Toy Exhibit
Tim Maxner, of Canning, is a dedicated John Deere collector. From the hat on his head to the boundless knowledge that he shares about his "precision toys" it's clear that he is serious about the business of John Deere.Tim started working for the John Deere Company back in 1982 around the time he acquired his first precision toy. It was a 65 hp Tractor with cab, a 2550 Collectors edition, from the 50 Series. That first toy, in a collection that now numbers over 700 pieces, is still his favourite and takes pride of place in his collection.
It would be a mistake to refer to Tim's collection as merely "miniatures", in fact they are precision toys, treasures that are hand-built replicas of the real thing. In the world of replicas precision toys represent the creme de la creme for collectors. These precision toys are 1/16th scale and are limited editions. Some are displayed with a gold medallion which lists the precision series number.
While the precision series maybe the majority of his collection Tim is also interested in obtaining older models "from the sandbox", a term collectors use for finding toys that have experienced another life - perhaps in a little boy's toy box or sand pile. Tim is always respectful of making sure the family is willing to part with the toy before offering to give it a new home. Some of the older toys are left "as is" respecting the provenance behind the toy, while others are in such rough shape that Tim utilizes his skill as a restorer to breath new life into the toy's appearance.
His love of collecting John Deere material is not limited to precision toys but includes all types of memorabilia - hats, signs, belt buckles, trains. In Tim Maxner the John Deere Company has found a loyal worker and enthusiastic collector.
Here are a few pictures of Tim and some of his collection.
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