trUe ValUes Limited engagement hIstory Making beautiful ...

trUe ValUes Limited engagementhIstory Making beautiful musicVenUes What’s new at the Steiff museum

The magazine for Steiff Club members –

A00666_Club_Magazin2013_4_usa.indd 1 16.01.14 09:32

Issue One 2014

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A “Mad Hatter” dominates the cover page of this issue. There’s also something enchanting, something magical, about the scene with the four Steiff Teddy bears in the picture on the left. You’ve guessed it: The Spring Collection for fans and collectors of the Steiff limited editions is dedicated to, among other things, the subject of magic. Our designers have adapted characters from the stories of “Alice in Wonderland” in the most delightful way. The “Mad Hatter” is just one example in the collection that we present in the new collector’s catalogue enclosed with this magazine.

The following pages contain a taste of other creatures that are wonderful and enchanting in a different way.

And not least, we honour the inventor and the invention of the “Button in Ear” trademark in this issue. We’ll be seeing much more of the elephant button this year. Start looking forward to it now! We’ll be keeping you informed in this magazine and at our Club events.

I’d like to take this opportu-nity to wish you a very happy 2014, and I hope you enjoy reading the latest issue of your magazine.

YOurS,

INGE ZINNECKEr

Steiff Club Manager

N e w s Almost like the real thing 4

Special items 6

T r u e va l u e s Limited engagement 8

r a r i T i e s Queen of the cats 10

H i s To ry Making beautiful music 12

C u lT u r e E-mail from the garden 15

C o N T e N T s

Pa s s i o N s Then & now ... again 16

C l u b - M a i l readers’ service 18

F ro M T H e w o r l d A new way to cuddle ... 20

v e N u e s What‘s new at the Steiff museum 21

Events 24

F av o u r i T e Afraid of the dark? 26

EdITOrIAL

Dear Steiff friends,

I m p r I n tPuBLISHEr: Margarete Steiff GmbHrichard-Steiff-Straße 4, 89537 Giengen an der Brenz, Germanytel.: + 49 (0) 7322 131555EdITOrS: rick Emerson, Inge ZinneckerCONTrIBuTOr: rebekah KaufmandESIGN ANd PrINT:Hess GmbH - Medien, www.hess-medien.deFrEQuENCY OF PuBLICATION: four times a yearwww.steiff.comSubject to changes. reprinting and copying, even inpart, only with the express permission of the publisher.By submitting manuscripts you consent to theirpublication in the Club magazine. We must reservethe right to edit or abridge letters or articles. Printed colours may deviate from the original.All rights reserved.Printed in Germany 01/2014 e – EAN 913495

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We believe our replicas for 2014 – including two Teddy bears and one animal

– are among the most authentic we have ever presented.

NEWS

Almost like the real thingOur replicas for Spring let collectors own a piece of the past.

again and again, collectors tell us how amazed they are at how close our replicas come to the originals on which they are based. To get as close as possible to the vintage examples, our designers study antique patterns, take careful measurements, and seek out special materials for the ultimate in authenticity. we believe our replicas for 2014 – including two Teddy bears and one animal – are among the most authentic we have ever presented.

The challenge in creating our 1908 Teddy bear was getting the mohair exactly right. The original was a unique salmon shade that had faded slightly with sun exposure over time.

The artisans at Steiff Schulte, working closely with detailed photographs of the original from a famous auction house, conducted many complex dyeing experiments before delivering a mohair that was the perfect match. Likewise, our designers made several prototypes before settling on the

fi nal pattern. The end result is simply breathtaking. The 1908 Teddy is wood stuffed, has hand-stitched features, and is fi ve-way jointed. He proudly wears an “underscored” button in ear that refl ects the period of his original manufacture.

Lovers of classic, traditional bears will defi nitely want to add this unique example of Steiff artistry to their collections.

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NEWS

Our Lord the Great dane replica is equally impressive. Based on an original produced from 1932 through 1936, this is only the second time that Steiff has produced a Great dane. Lord is sewn from wool felt that has been intricately hand-stenciled using the same painting techniques as his counterpart from over 80 years ago. Even the nose is painted, not stitched. Pink accents at the ears and eyes add extra detail. The dark brown glass eyes are individually handmade. Lord wears an “underscored F” button that refl ects the original time of production.

The Teddy bear replica from 1948 is a refl ection of a remarkable period in Steiff history. After the end of World War II, shortages forced Steiff designers to fi nd alternative materials as the company attempted to resume normal production. When traditional mohair was unavailable, other types of fabrics were used in production. From this era comes our 1948 Teddy replica. Instead of mohair, his covering is blond alpaca that best simulates the wool plush of the original. Because felt was also unavailable during this period, the Teddy’s paw pads are sewn from fi ne cotton linen. Like the original, our replica has glass eyes, is softly stuffed with excelsior, and has a squeaker. The nose is hand-stitched. A hint of airbrushing mirrors the aging of the 1948 example. A period-style “underscored F” button completes this exceptional vintage design.

Whether you’re a long-time collector of Steiff replicas, a lover of vintage pieces, or a new enthusiast, these three pieces are sure to make your heart beat a little faster.

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NEWS

GermanyC o l o g n e C a t h e d r a l t e d d y b e a r I I

A Gothic cathedral is not only notable for its graceful architecture that rises up towards the skies, but also – and especially – for its stained glass windows. They bathe the church interior in a fascinating coloured light. It is indeed extremely fortunate that a significant inventory of medieval stained glass in Cologne Cathedral, which was built between 1248 and 1880, has been preserved over the centuries. Not only is the stonework of the cathedral exposed to the elements, but so too are the fragile panes in the historic windows. Pollutants in the air and rain accelerate the process of decay. Preserving the unique treasures of medieval and contemporary stained glass for posterity is the task of the Glass restoration Workshop of the Cathedral Masonry Works (dombauhütte). The windows are restored with the greatest possible care, and protective exterior glazing provides long-term protection.

Special items

uKb r I t I s h C o l l e C t o r s ’ t e d d y b e a r 2 0 1 4

Born out of pure inspiration from the original Steiff Teddy bears from the early 1900’s, Steiff have captured every ounce of magic, spirit, nostalgia and romance that richard Steiff gifted his bears over 110 years ago. The British Collectors’ Teddy bear 2014 wears the finest mohair coat which is exceptionally produced and skilfully woven. His deep-set boot button eyes overflow with warmth, intelligence and neverending friendship. This bear growls loud to show how proud he is to join the celebrated series known as the ‘Jewel in the crown’ of the collectors’ world. (EAN 664380, 36 cm, Limited Edition of 2,000 pieces)

How To reaCH THe sTeiFF Club iN THe uK: Leyla Maniera, Margarete Steiff uK, Astra House, The Common, Cranleigh, Surrey Gu6 8rZ,

tel.: +44 (0) 1483 266643, fax: +44 (0) 1483 266650, e-mail: [email protected]

In honour of Cologne Cathedral and its unique glass windows, Steiff has designed the COLOGNE CATHEdrAL TEddY BEAr II that is available in a strictly limited edition of 1,500 pieces. Around his neck, COLOGNE CATHEdrAL TEddY BEAr II wears a pendant with a fragment of original glass, the fractured edges smoothed and polished, from Cologne Cathedral.

Cologne Cathedral Teddy bear II is available exclusively from Galeria Kaufhof Warenhaus GmbH Cologne, Hohe Strasse 41 – 53, d-60667 Cologne. Tel. +49 (0) 221 223 4501(EAN 673597, 22 cm, Limited Edition of 1,500 pieces)

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NEWS

uKU K J U b I l e e t e d d y b e a r

For twenty five years the British Collectors bear has quite rightly ruled as the most coveted “Jewel in the crown” of the collectors’ world. And for these twenty five years an exquisite array of stunning bears has reigned supreme.To celebrate this unique anniversary, we have chosen our very first “jewel” from 1989 to take the stage and invite you all to celebrate with him an amazing collection. Our uK Jubilee bear pays gracious tribute to the British Collectors bear from 1989. Slighter in stature but every inch proud and excited, as are we, to share with you this wonderful anniversary.(EAN 664373, 52 cm, Limited Edition of only 1,000 pieces)

uSAd a I s y r a b b I t

Simply adorable. That’s how you’ll describe our delightful daisy rabbit when you cast your eyes upon her. Next in our ongoing series of pastel rabbits, she’s as fresh as Springtime and so cute, you’ll want to display her year-round. daisy is sewn from white, pink, and lavender-blue mohair. Her pert ears are lined with white wool felt and finished with a brush of pink painting, just like her nose. Around her neck, she wears a lavender organza bow. daisy’s facial features are hand-stitched. Best of all, she’s carrying a special surprise – just for you! In her paws, she holds a basket of intricately handmade felt daisies – her namesake. (EAN 682766, 20 cm, Limited Edition of 1,500 pieces)

uSAp a n s y s p r I n g t I m e t e d d y

American pioneers believed that bringing a bouquet of pansies into the farmhouse each Spring would assure a year of prosperity. Our “Pansy Springtime Teddy” is sure to bring you both good fortune and happiness. Just looking at her will make you smile. Pansy wears a lovely corsage of two wool-felt pansy blossoms, each carefully hand painted and finished with a pearl. Her soft coat is made from highest quality cream-coloured alpaca and her features are hand-stitched. As the perfect finishing touch, we’ve tied a delicate pink organza ribbon around her neck. With so much to love, you’ll want to celebrate Springtime every day of the year with our Pansy Teddy bear.(EAN 682773, 30 cm, Limited Edition of 1,500 pieces)

How To reaCH THe sTeiFF Club iN NorTH aMeriCa: Steiff North America, Carolyn Smith, Club Administrator tel.: +1 401 312-0080, e-mail: [email protected]

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Limited engagementThe return of the “elephant button” – for one year only!

every steiff Teddy bear is special in its own way. but in 2014, there will be something truly exceptional about each of our limited editions (not replicas): the famous “elephant button” will return in celebration of the trademark’s 110th anniversary. but for one year only!

Franz Steiff, one of Margarete’s nephews, is credited with inventing this ingenious mark in 1904. Beginning on November 1 of that year, a metal identifi cation button was attached to virtually every Steiff product. As all collectors and enthusiasts know, that tradition is still carried forward today. The earliest buttons were embossed with the elephant logo or left blank. This gave way to the word “Steiff” in block letters with the “underscored F” with subtle variations. In 1952, the word “Steiff” fi rst appeared in a script font.

Buttons were made exclusively of nickel from 1933 to 1943, and nickel or nickel-plated material from 1943 through 1977. From that year forward, buttons were brass or brass-plated. In addition, more contemporary releases feature a gold-plated button, signifying their status as a valuable limited edition collectible.

Though the buttons – and the times – have changed through the years, this enduring symbol is still representative of the absolute highest quality in workmanship and materials. And that is certainly a cause for celebration.

TruE VALuES

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TruE VALuES

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From her introduction, Siamy has always been an absolute crowd favourite.

r ArIT IES

Queen of the catsAfter 80 years, Siamy occupies a place of honour in the heart of collectors.

it is interesting to note that most steiff collectors also love pets, and have, or have had, a special four legged friend in their lives at some point. steiff has always maintained a magical touch with cats, and these household companions have been an important part of the line since the beginnings of steiff as a toy company in the late 1880’s. since then, practically every cat breed, shape, and size has been featured at one time or another in the steiff menagerie. However, there is one steiff cat pattern that both dog and cat owners can agree upon as being worthy of winning best in show – the company’s classic siamy the siamese cat. This blue-eyed beauty was produced for a very short time through the 1930’s and 40’s, and again in the 1950s; both pre- and post-war models are extremely sought after by collectors.

Siamy made her debut in 1930, right at the tail end of a period of prolifi c creativity at Steiff. It was during the late 1920’s that many beloved, wide-eyed, innocently named cat patterns – including Susi, Kitty, and Tabby – were introduced to the world. All of these felines had a gentle look and feel to them, and came wearing large silk ribbons; Siamy was no different. Siamy was originally produced in 14, 17, 22, 25, and 30 cm, in mohair or wool plush. In all cases she was sitting and head jointed. Siamy’s ears, tail, and front paws were brown; her face was detailed with carefully applied airbrushing to give her a realistic “Siamese Cat” appearance. She had a small, vertically hand-stitched, heart-shaped pink nose

and a simple pink closed mouth. It goes without saying that Siamy’s most well known, outstanding feature was her incredibly intense, cobalt blue glass pupil eyes!

A year after her debut, in 1931, Siamy was produced with a tail-turns-head mechanism in 15, 18, 23, 26, and 31 cm. The main design difference between the

mechanical Siamy and the original was that the mechanical version had a tail that was positioned almost perpendicular to the body (so it could be adjusted left and right), while the original Siamy’s tail wrapped gently around her body. However, despite her popularity, appeal, and striking good looks, pre-war Siamy was last noted in the catalogue in 1942.

Capitalizing on Siamy’s popularity, Steiff produced a 17 cm glove puppet called a Kasperl-Siamy or Punch Siamy, based on the basic Siamy head design, from 1930 though 1934. Steiff also made a 30 by 30 cm Siamy Nachthemdentasche or Siamy pyjama bag from 1930 through 1937; both of these items are exceptionally rare.

Like many popular pre-war designs, Siamy was reintroduced in the Steiff line a few years after the factory reopened for business in the very late 1940’s. However, she was only made in 11, 15, and 23 cm from 1953 through 1954. The post-war pattern did have two key updates over the earlier version. First, pre-war Siamys had mohair ears; in

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right and bottom:Siamy is known for her signature eyes,

an outstanding feature of the design.


the post war version, the smallest Siamys had all felt ears, while the medium and large sizes had felt lined mohair ears. And second, pre-war Siamys had closed mouths; post war Siamys had closed mouths or open, felt lined mouths.

But one thing about Siamy’s pattern didn’t change one bit over time – she retained her famous trademark blue eyes.

From her introduction, Siamy has always been an absolute crowd favourite. Her distinctive coloration, unusual eyes, and adorable presentation have maintained their appeal – and value – with Steiff

enthusiasts for over 80 years. To honour that tradition

and loyalty, Steiff created two collector’s versions of Siamy over the past 20 years or so. The fi rst was a 22 cm “Siamy 1930 replica” that was produced in an edition size of 4,000 in 1994. The second, also 22 cm,

was made in an edition size of 2,000 in 2006. The 2006 version, like the 1930’s original, came packaged with its legs lightly tied to wooden dowels – to prevent any body damage or shifting during the long trip from Giengen to toy store shelves all over the world.

left:Siamy 1930 replica from 1994.

right:Kiki siamese cat masterpiece (EAN 037498, 2014).

bottom left:Kasperl Siamy (1930 - 1934).

bottom right:Pyjama bags from the 1930’s.

r ArIT IES

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HISTOrY

Making beautiful musicSteiff animals were making music before movies could talk.

even from its very beginnings, steiff has been an innovator in the toy industry. The company has always updated its offerings with items that refl ect the times, as well as implemented new processes that improve production and operational effi ciencies. Steiff has also been an early adapter of new materials and technologies. a good example of this is the company’s history with musical items. High quality, european made music boxes became available on a large, commercial scale in the mid-1920’s. seeing the potential in this, steiff began creating a line of musical animals based on its most popular items of the time. and, since then, the company has almost continuously had musical offerings in the line.

1928 was the debut year for musical animals in the Steiff catalogue. It was then that Steiff created a series of “Music-Animals” based on their most popular designs and patterns of the time. These animals were simply the standard line animals with a music box imbedded in their torsos. Of course, a key factor for determining which animals would be created with a musical feature was the size of their chests; this area had to be large enough to comfortably accommodate and protect the music box. According to company records, these animals were introduced for “cuddling and snuggling-up-to before falling asleep”. This line included a fi ve-way jointed Teddy bear; a brown tipped Petsy the baby bear; standing and sitting versions of Bully the bulldog, Molly the puppy, Cheerio the laughing puppy, Fellow the puppy, and Charly the King Charles Spaniel; a sitting

Treff the bloodhound and Fluffy the cat; and a standing lamb. Steiff also produced a musical clown doll as part of this series. Most of these early musical items had a press and release style music box; standing Charly’s music box was activated by pulling on his tail. These items appeared overall in sizes ranging from 17 through 43 cm.

despite their charming appearance and musical features, these items were quite expensive and few were made. For example, according to company records, Steiff produced only 328 Music Mollys in total. unfortunately at the time, sales of these early musical items were minimal and they were last featured in the catalogue in 1930/1931. Today these items, due to their rarity, limited time in the line, and fragility, are highly desired by collectors all over the world.

Steiff introduced their next musical items shortly after the factory reopened for business after World War II. In 1950, the company featured three new musical animals, also based on popular designs of the time, in their line. These included a Music Bazi, based on the beloved dachshund pattern; a Music Teddy Baby; and a Music Kitty, based on the company’s famous cat pattern. They were all made from mohair, 25 cm tall, head jointed,

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bottom:Music Molly (1928 - 1931).


The 1951 Music Teddy replica from 1993

...

HISTOrY

and in a standing position. They were dressed in authentic, lose fi tting German clothing. Their bodies were simple cylinders; their arms fl opped gently at their sides. Their music boxes were activated by gently squeezing their bodies up and down like an accordion. It is interesting to note that these items had the article number 9325, which translates to 9=mechanical, 3=mohair, 25=25 cm. All of these early post war musical animals appeared in the line in 1950 through 1951 only.

In 1951, following the “accordion style” animal series, Steiff started to produce what would be later be recognized as one of the company’s most beloved musical animals. Known simply as Music Teddy, this bear was produced from 1951 through 1957. He was 35 cm, fi ve-way jointed, and made from caramel coloured mohair. His hand and foot pads were made from tannish peach coloured felt. His face was detailed with brown and black glass pupil eyes and a brown hand embroidered nose and mouth. right in the middle of his belly was a red felt circle that had the word “Music” printed in white. When this spot was squeezed and released, it played a sweet lullaby. His pattern was based on the updated “Original Teddy Bear” pattern that was also introduced in 1951.

In response to collector’s demand and interest, the company produced a 35 cm replica of the 1951 Music Teddy in 1993 through 1995 in an edition size of 7,000.The collector’s response to Music Teddy was quite positive, so Steiff decided to create another musical edition – this time based on their classic Jocko the chimpanzee. This piece was called Music Jocko and was based on the company’s standard line 35 cm brown mohair chimpanzee. Like Music Teddy, Music Jocko had a squeeze-activated music box implanted in his belly, which was also noted by a red felt disk on his belly. Music Jocko appeared in the line from 1951 through 1957.

Steiff also experimented with a new form of musical animal in the mid to late 1950’s – a tail winding style design. The music box was activated by turning the tail in a circular motion. This design was produced in two styles, a musical Cockie cocker spaniel, and a musical Kitty cat. Both were 17 cm and sitting; Cockie had an open mouth and was made from black and white mohair while Kitty had a closed mouth and was made from white and grey mohair. Both appeared in the line from 1955 through 1961.

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HISTOrY

As music box technologies became less expensive and more durable, Steiff began putting them in more playthings designed specifi cally for babies and children. Since the 1970’s, Steiff has made numerous plush, washable cotton, and velour musical items, in styles including zoo and farm friends; natured themed items like the sun, moon, and fl owers; and soft dolls and clowns. Unlike Steiff’s earlier models, these had wind up or pull cord musical mechanisms, and in some cases, the music box could be removed so the outer shell could be laundered. The current line features a myriad of adorable and washable musical animals including dogs, bears, elephants, donkeys, and many other sweet and baby friendly items.

Today, Steiff adds music boxes to its fi ne collectibles in order to bring a special or seasonal touch to an item. For example, the company produces an annual limited edition musical Teddy bear each Christmas, and often partners with other luxury brands like Lladró to create special co-branded musical editions. Three recent Steiff-Lladró musical collaborations include handsome Steiff mohair Teddy bears playing the accordion, a violin, and a saxophone.

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Above left:Music Cockie

was produced from 1955 to 1961.

Above right:Hoppel rabbit

Music box, EAN 237584,

from 2010).

Bottom right:the Lladró

accordion player, EAN 677298

from 2011.


CuLT urE

E-mail from the garden

dear readers:Since I am not yet famous, an introduction is in order. My name is Cupcake and I’m pleased to make your acquaintance. unlike Peter rabbit or “rabbit” from Pooh, I’m not very well known yet. But all that is about to change! This Spring, I am making my introduction as a special Steiff item for children. With one look at me, I’m sure you’ll agree that I’m the perfect Easter gift!

The tradition of associating rabbits with Easter began in Germany, my homeland. Likewise, eggs have long been symbols of this special holiday. My creators at Steiff have brought the two together to make the ideal gift for the season.

Other rabbits may live in the garden, but I have my own special house. I live in a cuddly soft egg! Zip it open, and you’ll fi nd me resting sleepily inside. But don’t worry about waking me up because I’m always ready to play!

Whether you’re a collector, a kid, or just a child at heart, I’m ready to delight you with my playful personality and cheerful good looks. Easter just wouldn’t be complete without me!

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Krys Lahaie and Dave Burks

have loved Steiff animals since their childhood.

Then & now ... againCollectors share their lifelong passions.

From the very beginning, Margarete steiff always insisted that “only the best for our children”. and that statement remains a priority steiff even today! but, children do grow up … but that does not mean that they outgrow their love of their special steiff childhood companions. sometimes they mean more today than ever before. Here are three more lifelong steiff collectors with the special steiff treasures they received long ago that they continue to cherish today.

Please meet Krys Lahaie, who lives in Canada. Professionally, she is an auditor for a local casino. Krys has been collecting Steiff ever since she was a little girl; she currently has about 51 in her ever-growing collection. She loves Teddy bears and her most precious Steiff is a Zotty that she received from her grandfather. Sadly, he mailed it off to her the same day he passed away.

Krys also really loves Steiff tigers. She and her older brother received many Steiff animals from their grandparents who were living in Hildesheim, Germany in the 1960’s. In around 1965-66, they sent her a wonderful tiger. He was considered to be so cute that she would not play with him, only admire him on a shelf – that’s the reason he still looks so good today! Krys and her brother used to love showing off how the green glass eyes of Steiff’s big cats would glow in the dark after being exposed to a light. Today, this tiger and the ones that followed are a constant reminder of her love for her grandparents as well as the legacy of Steiff that they so generously shared with her.

Hopping right along to our next lifelong collector, please say hello to dave Burks. He lives on the west coast of the united States. Professionally, he builds guitars, is a musician, and an antiques dealer and collector. He has been collecting Steiff since 1974, when he was only ten years old. His Steiff collection has grown and contracted over time; his current collection includes about 120 very special items because in his own words, “I am super fussy and very low on display space. I keep my collection small and limited to only the ‘heart breakers’.” His most favourite items are Zotty bears from the 1950’s, Teddy babies, and rabbits.

PASSIONS

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Ann Clayton received her first

Steiff animal at the age of three.

dave’s lifelong Steiff companion is a large mohair kangaroo. He received this tall and special friend for Christmas in 1975 from his mom, who often purchased him a Steiff item if he was having a bad day. It was love at first sight and Dave immediately fell for the materials and quality of the kangaroo’s construction, as well as her chunkiness.

recently, he was examining the roo in his kangaroo’s pouch and discovered the baby’s chest tag, which must have torn off years ago – but was perfectly preserved. He had no idea the roo ever had a chest tag! Today, this beloved twosome sits in the place of honour in dave’s home, in his bedroom by a special chair, where they continue to provide joy and pleasure after almost forty years!

Our third and final lifelong collector today also received her “friend for life” as a Christmas gift! Please meet Ann Clayton, who also lives in the united States. She works as the office manager and executive assistant for a heating and air conditioning business. She got her first Steiff friend in 1973 when she was 3 years old. Today her collection numbers around 210, and she particularly likes those Steiff items from the 1960’s and 1970’s … the ones she wanted as a kid but could not afford at the time!

Ann’s lifelong Steiff friend is Steiff’s Swinny guinea pig, who she immediately renamed “Nibbles”, which is exactly what guinea pigs do! Ann got Nibbles for Christmas in 1977, when she was just 8 years old. At the time, he was the next best thing to a live pet! Nibbles was the first Steiff Ann received for Christmas, but since then she has gotten at least one every year for the holidays. The Steiff gifts were – and remain – her favourites every holiday, and she purposely tries to find the Steiff gift under the tree before opening any gifts at all! Today, Nibbles shows all the signs of being loved for many years, but he still squeaks. His button fell out of his felt ear long ago, but rests in a container next to him. He is enjoying retired life, residing with three other Steiff guinea pigs in Ann’s adult home.

PASSIONS

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Question:I especially enjoy Steiff ’s camels and have quite a few in my collection. I noticed that my Hocky has a particularly interesting and unusual ear tag and button combination. What can you tell me about it? NH, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA

Answer: Your Hocky Dromedary is 14 cm, standing, and unjointed. He is made from woven fur and has brown airbrushed highlights on his feet, back, and face. His face is detailed with tiny felt ears, black button eyes, and a hand painted nose and mouth. Hocky has a red cord leash, which is original to him. Hocky was made in 14 cm from 1977 through 1983. His unusual gold raised script button was used roughly from 1978 through 1980, while his exact style of tag was only used for about one year, in 1981. This combination of ID dates this piece to the late 1980/early 1981 time frame.

Question:I couldn’t believe my eyes when I found this tiny Steiff kitten on a recent trip to our local antique shop. Could she be the smallest mohair cat made by Steiff? And why is her chest tag written with red letters? RG, Sacramento, CA, USA

Answer: What a wonderful find, and what good eyes you have. You have found Steiff’s smallest “Tabby” cat. She is 7 cm tall, unjointed, and made from mohair. Her back, arms, legs, tail, and the sides of her head are airbrushed with black stripes. She has black and green slit pupil eyes and a pink embroidered nose and mouth. She retains her original clear mono-filament whiskers and pink ribbon. Overall, Tabby was produced from 1949 – 1977 in 7, 10, 14 and 17 cm. This 7 cm size is one of the smallest mohair cats Steiff ever produced and is of particular interest to collectors, given its relative rarity and precious, petite appearance. Her design, eye style, and red imprinted chest tag indicate that she was produced in the very early 1950’s.

Club MaIl

Readers’ serviceDo you have a question about something in your collection? Learn more here!

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Question:I have looked high and low but cannot seem to be able to identify this Steiff dog. I am certain he was made by Steiff as he has a button in ear and yellow ear flag. He sort of looks like a post-war Bully bulldog, but not exactly. Can you help? AJS, Berlin, Germany

answer: What you have here is Steiff’s rather rare Cosy Bully, who indeed is a distant cousin to the better known mohair ver-sion of this breed. Bully is 22 cm, standing, unjointed, and made from dralon. He has brown and black spot detailing on his rear end and head, while his ears, face, and muzzle are made from black trivera velvet. And you can’t help but notice his large googly style eyes. Cosy Bully was made for one year – 1962 – and only in this size.

Question:I just discovered this old favourite Steiff puppet after going through some boxes of childhood toys I had put away in the attic almost two decades ago! Just seeing him again brings back many happy memories. I was born in the late 1950’s; when was this puppet made? OW, Zurich, Switzerland

answer:Congratulations on your happy reunion! Your puppet is called Hand Gora, or Gorilla puppet. He is 17 cm and made from long grey brown dralon. His ears are pink felt, and his hands, face, and muzzle area are made from shorter tan dralon. He has prominent round googly eyes, adding to his playful appeal. Gora was made in this size only from 1961 through 1964.

CLuB MAIL

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A new way to cuddle ...Designers turn to Steiff mohair for their fashion collections.

“For shoppers seeking comfort in the winter, what could be cosier than wrapping up in the stuff of the original Teddy bear?” That’s the question posed by the prestigious international newspaper The Financial Times last October. On the 18th of that month, the publication ran a fascinating story about how acclaimed designers had turned to Steiff Schulte to provide material for their fashion collections.

Designers from Dries Van Noten to Vika Gazinskaya to Tommy Hilfi ger sent coats down the runway made of Steiff’s signature mohair – just like the material used on your favourite Teddy bears! Here’s what the designers told The Financial Times about their choice to use Steiff:

Tommy Hilfi ger: “We wanted to develop on the faux-fur trend and do it in a more youthful and playful way. Steiff is a heritage fabric that gives a new take on texture and the quality is exquisite. The association with childhood is also part of the fabric’s appeal. My children all had Steiff Teddy bears growing up, so I thought it was a very cool idea to use it in my designs.”

Serafi na Sama of Isa Arfen: “For winter I wanted to explore the idea of comfort – not in the sense of ‘comfortable’, but in the sense of ‘comforting’. I wanted my garments to feel protecting in the way you would cosset a child.”

Vika Gazinskaya, on why Steiff mohair refl ects her anti-fur stance: “My method of activism is giving the customer a fashionable alternative to animal skin. To me, Steiff is the ideal alternative to real fur.”

Summing up the attraction of Steiff Schulte mohair for the newspaper, alexander Schönfeld, Steiff’s head of strategic marketing and design, said: “I suppose the aim of every fashion collection is to tell a story.”

FROM ALL OV ER THE WORLD

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© G. Uhle KG


Redesigned: the display area at the Steiff museum.

A look at the new Factory outlet.

Simone Färber, director of the Steiff museum, presenting the Factory outlet Teddy bear.

on Tuesday, 5 November 2013, Margarete steiff GmbH and the steiff museum under the directorship of simone Färber opened the redesigned display area in the steiff museum.

The old individual cabinets were replaced by a new design by dietrich display. The design company and Steiff’s creative team worked together on carrying out the concept. The history of Margarete Steiff GmbH is displayed chronologically from 1847 to today in a 25.5 m white display cabinet with a black back. Visitors walk along a timeline consisting of around 500 exhibits of different sizes. Specialities such as “Elefäntle”, the world’s first soft toy, are highlighted visually.

The new Steiff factory outlet is now housed in the “Villa” next to the museum with various Steiff animals available at lower prices. It complements the range of Steiff products offered at the museum shop.

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News from the Steiff museumSteiff opens redesigned display area in the Steiff museum and new Steiff factory outlet.

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Steiff AoyamaThe new Steiff shop in Tokyo.

a new steiff shop, “steiff aoyama”, opened in Tokyo on 1 November 2013. The suburb of aoyama is one of the best shopping districts in the city. The entire steiff collection is available on some 100 m² and two floors.

Steiff’s new marketing partner in Japan is “MS1880 Co., Ltd.”, which is based in the same area at South Aoyama Tech. Bld. 3-12-24 Minamiaoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0062.

The opening in Tokyo was attended by Ms. Masako Mori, the Minister for Women and Children; dr. Lutz H. Görgens, director of the department of Economic Affairs and research at the German Embassy, and actress Kyoko Takami, Steiff’s Ambassador in Japan.

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left to right: Ms. Kyoko Takami, Mr. Tetsuo Tamura

(President of MS 1880 Co., Ltd.),

Ms. Masako Mori and

Dr. Lutz H. Görgens.

Inside the new Steiff shop in Tokyo.


after being closed at the end of June 2013, the traditional toy store lütgenau in dortmund celebrated its reopening under new management on 19 september.

Not only has this delighted children, but Steiff collectors also have every reason to be pleased. The Steiff Club is being run in line with the old tradition, Club events are being organised, and valuable collector’s items are available in the large Steiff shop.

Lütgenau will be celebrating the reopening in the first quarter of the new year with a large Club event. On Friday, 14 March, Club speaker Ms. Bettina Heinrich will be presenting the Steiff Spring innovations on its premises. As a special highlight, Carsten Esser, Managing director of Teddydorado GmbH, the auction house that specialises in fine StuffedToys & TeddyBears, will assess the treasures brought in by attendees and speak on the subject of “110 years of ‘Button in Ear’”.

The main prize in the traditional Club event raffle will be a limited 43 cm Jeremy Teddy bear, who is already looking forward to meeting his new owner.

All collectors and fans are warmly invited to this event. Interested parties are requested to book before 7th March, 2014 by phoning +49 (0)231 549050 or by emailing [email protected]

Spielwaren Lütgenau, DortmundNew look for an old familiar name.

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The main prize, waiting for his new owner: 43 cm Jeremy Teddy bear, limited to 1,500 pieces.


EventsClub events and other dates.

GerMaNy08/02 Galeria Kaufhof, Stuttgart, tel. +49 (0)711 2 03 616919/02 Galeria Kaufhof, Munich, tel. +49 (0)89 23 18 57 3320/02 spielwaren bauer, Öhringen, tel. +49 (0)79 41 94 95021/02 Korb rau, Göppingen, tel. +49 (0)71 61 7 25 7721/02 Karstadt warenhaus GmbH, Nuremberg, tel. +49 (0)911 21 31 06808/03 Galerie seebär, Immenstaad, tel. +49 (0)75 45 94 14 6011/03 spielwaren letzel, Heilbronn, tel. +49 (0)7131 83 98613/03 (NI) Galeria Kaufhof, regensburg, tel. +49 (0)941 460078013/03 Galeria Kaufhof, Oberhausen, tel. +49 (0)208 8 23 03 7814/03 Heinrich roskothen, duisburg, tel. +49 (0)203 2 02 8014/03 lütgenau, dortmund, tel. +49 (0)231 54 90 5015/03 Karstadt warenhaus GmbH, Berlin, tel. +49 (0)151 51 09 14515/03 Paul wolff oHG, Giengen, tel. +49 (0)7322 93 18 5520/03 May GmbH, Waldshut, tel. +49 (0)77 51 9 11 81022/03 spielzeugparadies wagner & raschka, Bochum, tel. +49 (0)234 90 28 2027/03 Carl schäffer Geschenke, Osnabrück, tel. +49 (0)541 3 31 31 3228/03 (NI) Karstadt, Mülheim, tel. +49 (0)208 4 95 14 6829/03 antheum, Cologne, tel. +49 (0)221 27 72 66 6004/04 Galeria Kaufhof, Kassel, tel. +49 (0)561 7 89 61 33004/04 Karstadt warenhaus GmbH, Braunschweig, tel. +49 (0)531 4 73 14 9905/04 Galeria Kaufhof, Hannover, tel. +49 (0)511 3 60 14 3706/04 bären- und Puppenstube engelmann, ratingen, tel. +49 (0)8322/94017030/04 Teddys rothenburg, tel. +49 (0)9861/933444 09/05 Karstadt warenhaus GmbH, Bremen, tel. +49 (0)421 30 71 468

belGiuM22 + 23/02 Toyland, de Panne, tel. +32 (0)58.41 14 85

Fr aNCe03.05. Calin l‘ours, La Baule Escoublac, Tel. +33 (0)251.750321

ausTria07/03 Kober/steiff in vienna, tel. +43 (0)1.512489608/03 Elfi s Puppenstube, Vienna, tel. +43 (0)1.8656589

NeTHerlaNds08/03 Hesemans, Breda, tel. +31 (0)76.521231022/03 berelijn, dordrecht, tel. +31 (0)78.6318028

GreaT briTaiN14 + 15/03 Teddy bears of witney, Tel: +44 (0)1993.702616 or 70661616/03 The bear Garden, Guildford Tel: +44 (0)1483.302581

(NI = New introductions)

Other Dates

8 and 9 March 2014Teddybär welt 2013rhein-Main-Hallen WiesbadenContact: Christine Spies Max-Fremery-Str. 3a, 50827 CologneTel. +49 (0)221 5 30 65 53Fax: +49 (0)221 5 30 56 89www.teddybaer-welt.de

22 March 2014auction stuffedToys & Teddybears Stadthalle Bad-Godesberg, Koblenzer Straße 80, 53177 Bonn am rheinContact: Teddydorado GmbH, Marienstraße 2 53343 WachtbergTel. +49 (0)228 20 76 758Fax: +49 (0)228 20 76 759www.teddydorado.com

26 and 27 April 2014Teddybär Total in Münsterwww.teddybaer-total.de

27 to 29 June 2014steiff sommer 2014at Margarete Steiff GmbH, Giengen an der BrenzFree datings and appraisals on 27 and 29 Junefrom 12.00 - 15.00 hrs by Teddydorado GmbH (see above)

28 June 2014steiff special auctionBürgerhaus Schranne, Giengen an der BrenzOrganized by Teddydorado GmbH (see above)

28 and 29 June 2014Teddy bear workshops in Giengen an der BrenzIf you are interested in taking part, please download your application form athttps://info.steiff .de/A28102010/Registration.pdfdeadline is 11 April 2014!A photo of the workshop Teddy bear is available at https://info.steiff .de/A28102010/Workshop.jpg

Subject to change. Please contact the Club stores for further information. You will fi nd further dates and addresses of Club stores at www.steiff .com (column Club/Club events).

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above left: Teddy bears from the 1950s/1960s in mint condition.

bottom left: felt donkey on wheels and Bully from woollen plush in special size.

above: unique display piece “Immenstaad at Lake Constance”, around 1963.

bottom: Custom made piece “Teddy Maid” in the meadow, around 1937/1938.

auction House Teddydorado GmbH are the only auctioneers in the world to specialise in exclusive “stuffedToys & Teddybears” made by Margarete steiff GmbH.

The highlight in the 2014 auction year will be the “steiff special auction” by Teddydorado on 28 June at the Bürgerhaus Schranne in Giengen/Brenz during the “9th Steiff Summer 2014”. Once again, a selection of rarities from various years throughout the 134-year history of Margarete Steiff GmbH will be sold to the highest bidders. The online catalogue at Teddydorado.com contains details on items that can still be offered for auction.

You can also enter precious Steiff items for the next “stuffedToys & Teddybears auction” on 22 March 2014 in Bonn/Germany. A range of rare Steiff items from the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, Steiff replicas and special items from 1980 plus Steiff items from before 1943 in excellent condition will be auctioned off successively.

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Treasures and raritiesAuction House TeddyDorado invites items for upcoming Steiff auctions.

Along with the more than 500 Steiff items, there will also be a collection of wool miniatures and many vehicles in mint condition that can currently be seen in the extremely comprehensive online catalogue at www.teddydorado.com. As always, the printed auction catalogue will be illustrated with lots of informative pictures and highly detailed descriptions and should be of interest to collectors independent from the auction.

Admission to the two public room auctions on 22 March in Bonn and 28 June in Giengen/Brenz is free. Printed catalogues with the list of results can be sent internationally for € 30. Back catalogues and lists of results are available at € 20 (including shipping costs). Further information is available on the Internet at www.teddydorado.com.

Auction House Teddydorado offers free datings and appraisals of your historic steiff items on valuation days in the “Steiff Museum” and at the “Steiff Summer” in Giengen/Brenz, during the Teddydorado auctions in Bonn and by appointment on the company’s premises in Wachtberg near Bonn. You can telephone Teddydorado on +49 228 2076 758 during their consultation hours (10.00 – 13.00 hrs) on Tuesdays and Thursdays or send an email to [email protected] any time.

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“do you believe in magic, Mom?” asked Frederic the monkey to his Mother as they were walking home from school one afternoon. “why do you ask?” responded his Mother. “because i do, but my classmates all laugh at me when i tell them i want to be a magician when i grow up”, said Frederic. “well, i believe in you, and you can do what ever you want as long as you work hard at it and practice”, said his Mother.

So that’s exactly what Frederic did. He read about magic tricks, and the history of famous magicians like Harry Houdini, and even watched online videos about famous stunts by today’s famous magicians. He also practiced basic magic tricks with cards and balloons and coins in his room when he was done with his schoolwork. Slowly but surely, he was learning how to be a magician.

Time went on, and soon it would be Frederic’s birthday. Mother asked him what he would like as a gift, and Frederic replied, “Well, like all good magicians, I need a black top hat and a rabbit!” So, on his special day, Frederic did receive these things. He decided to name the rabbit diva, and they quickly became good friends. They got along well except for one thing. diva was afraid of the dark! And, as such, she would not allow Frederic to pull her out of the dark black top hat as part of his magic show.

This really became a problem for Frederic, even though he understood about being afraid of the dark. Even he sometimes liked to keep the closet light in his bedroom illuminated on very dark and stormy nights. So Frederic talked with diva about her fear of the dark, and how he wanted her to be part of the magic show. She did want to participate, but they could not seem to come up with a solution to the problem.

Frederic was getting discouraged and sad. His mother wanted to cheer him up, so she and he and diva took a little trip to visit family in the country for the weekend. Frederic’s cousin had just gotten a new puppy! The puppy, whose name was Zelda, was a friendly little pug dog who got along well with diva. So much so, that when it was time to go to bed, diva and Zelda snuggled up together in Zelda’s little dog bed and fell asleep together. Because the cousins lived in the country, it got dark – very dark – in the house at night. But this surprisingly did not seem to bother diva at all.

In the morning, Frederic woke up and looked for diva. She was still dozing with Zelda. When she finally did awake, Frederic asked her, “How are you doing at night here, it is so dark, are you afraid?” And diva said, “No, not at all. Your cousin has put a little night light by Zelda’s bed, so there is just enough light to make me feel safe.”

Frederic thought about this for awhile. On the way home from the country, he asked diva, “If I put a little nightlight in the black top hat, like the one Zelda has by her bed, would you still feel afraid of the dark in there?” And diva said, “No, I would not. And, perhaps the light glowing from the top hat would make it look even more magical during your show!” So as soon as they returned home, Frederic inserted a battery powered light right in the interior rim of his top hat, and diva was quite pleased with that. Together they practiced the magic routine of pulling a rabbit out of a hat many times, and finally they were able to do it perfectly.

Frederic was so excited about his magic tricks, and being able to work with diva, that he invited his Mother, cousins, Zelda, and friends from school for a special magic show. Everyone came to Frederic’s house for the performance. His Mother even made a cake in the shape of a black top hat to celebrate the event! The show went perfectly, and diva was very happy waiting in the black top hat with the nightlight... she even came out at just the right time during the trick. At the end of the show, Frederic yelled out to his friends and family, “do you believe in magic now?” And they all cheered and said “Yes!” Then Frederic looked at diva and said, “Thank you for your help with the show.” And diva said, “Yes, of course, that’s what it means to be a friend for life.”

FAVOurIT E

Afraid of the dark?Diva rabbit overcomes her fear with the help of a friend.

26


FAVOurIT E

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Margarete steiff GmbH, richard-Steiff-Straße 4, 89537 Giengen an der Brenz

9134

95

www.steiff.com


Steiff Club North America SupplementIssue One, 2014

A new year is beginning and we are very excited to offer a new service available to North American Club members only. Many people call or email Steiff looking for information on a vintage piece from their collection. As a Steiff Club member, you now have an easy answer: The new Readers’ Service! To access this service, simply write a brief paragraph of a favorite Steiff piece including approximately when you acquired the piece, any (family) history you know about it and a short description including size, color, fabric, if any ear or chest tags are still attached, make sure you include the information printed on them. Take photos, be sure to take close ups of any tags and ear button if available, and send this documentation to The Steiff Club at the address below or via email to [email protected]. After our Steiff USA archivist completes his research, you will then receive detailed information and a history of your Steiff piece by return mail (or email).

The “Button in Ear” Trademark: Every Steiff product is unmistakably identified by a metal button. Franz Steiff, Margarete’s nephew, is credited with inventing this ingenious mark in 1904. A number of buttons were used over the years. The button does not give an exact indication of the date of creation; however, it does offer a collector a means of correlating Steiff products to a certain production period. The first button was embossed with an elephant or left blank. This gave way to the word “Steiff” in block letters with the “underscored F” with subtle variations. In 1952 the word “Steiff” appeared in script font. Buttons were originally made of nickel or nickel-plated material. In 1977 buttons were brass or brass-plated. In addition, a gold-plated button will appear on more contemporary releases to signify their status as a valuable limited edition. In 2014, there will be something truly exceptional about each of our limited editions (not replicas): the famous “elephant button” will return in celebration of the trademark’s 110th anniversary. But for one year only! Though the buttons and times have changed, this enduring symbol is still representative of the absolute highest quality in workmanship and materials. A true cause for celebration!

Have you visited the Steiff Club section on the new website, www.steiffusa.com, recently? You must register your email address with the Steiff Club for access to the information in this special members’ only area. This issue as well as past digital issues of the Steiff Club magazine is available to download or read. Purchase your 2014 Club Limited Edition bears, Chestnut and Bert, or locate your favorite official Steiff retailer here and order through them! Check back often for updated details of Steiff events in your area. You can also renew your membership or give a gift of membership to a friend or family member.

We apologize for the typographical error on the order form for Cookie, The Holiday Bear. This exceptional Swarovski elements bear is still available at the special purchase, members’ only, price of $210 (that’s $100 off!) while supplies last. Contact the Steiff Club directly to place your order. Shipping ($13) and MA, NY, RI tax will be added.

Steiff North America, Inc.24 Albion Road Suite 220 • Lincoln, RI 02865-3747 • Tel. (401) 312-0080 • Fax (401) 475-2147

www.steiffusa.com

Making Friends Since 1880 Keeping Friends For Life

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