Model Maker was a theme of sets manufactured by Samsonite starting in 1968 until 1971. There were nineteen sets produced for this theme, many of these sets were duplications of sets released with-in the LEGOLAND theme that were originally produced by LEGO for European markets.
1969 LEGO Sets
1969 saw the launch of the DUPLO system, introducing double-sized bricks for preschoolers and opening a new age group for LEGO play. The company’s workforce surpassed 800 employees as sales and exports climbed. Trains advanced with new red spoked wheels, and LEGO Futura—an R&D division focused on concept development—was established in Billund. By this time, LEGO’s shift from cellulose acetate to ABS plastic was nearly complete, ensuring stronger and more colorfast bricks.