How to Tell a Fake Hobby Horse Tricycle
Most antique hobby horse tricycles that are for sale aren't genuine antiques. In fact, many are replicas made in China, the Philippines and elsewhere. Some sellers offer these pieces as replicas, but there are many dealers who try to pass them off as genuine antiques. Genuine, antique hobby horse tricycles were produced in the 1940s as working children's tricycles. To spot a replica, there are many things you should look for.
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Instructions
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Look for surface wear and tear. Most authentic hobby horse tricycles will have some signs of wear on the surface. However, an even amount of surface wear all over the tricycle is a sign of a replica: The creator of the piece has intentionally worn the surface of the tricycle to make it look old.
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Make sure there is wood on the hubs, the rim of the wheels and the actual wheels. Some replicas will not have these details.
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Find signs of poor iron casting on the pedals and frame of the hobby horse tricycle. Many replicas are poorly cast with rough edges, lack surface rust, and lack detailed ornamentation. Furthermore, the metal will look flat.
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Spot semi-transparent paint. Replicas will often use a semi-transparent gloss over the horse that allows the undercoat to show through. This is designed to make the paint look worn.
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Check the horse for signs of poor workmanship. Replica hobby horse tricycles will often not have superior or clean details in the formation of the horse. Often the eyes on replicas are held in place with adhesive on replicas. Genuine horse tricycles are carved from one piece of wood. The paint is often sloppy on replicas.
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