About Sprung Chicken
We’re a tiny team with a big soft spot for mid-century wind-up chickens. Our guides turn clockwork jargon into friendly, practical advice — from authenticating models to keeping that lively “jumping” gait in top form.
Our mission: clarity, care, and clockwork
We focus on one niche and do it properly: the classic yellow “jumping” wind-up chicken. Our articles distill mechanism basics, dating cues, and inspection checklists into clear, actionable steps.
Whether you’re buying your first piece or maintaining a family treasure, we help you protect authenticity and preserve that joyful hop for years to come.
Our Core Values
The principles that guide everything we do.
Authenticity
Every recommendation is vetted against period materials, markings, and build techniques to keep your collection genuine.
Education
Step-by-step guides replace guesswork with confidence — perfect for first-time buyers and seasoned restorers.
Preservation
We promote safe cleaning, proper lubrication, and storage that respects originality and long-term value.
Community
Collecting is better together — share finds, ask questions, and trade notes with friendly enthusiasts.
What we’re good at
Specialised knowledge for wind-up chickens — no fluff, just useful detail.
Authentication Services
Construction, materials, fasteners, and movement parts are checked against known period references to confirm originality.
Detailed Analysis
We document mechanism condition, wear patterns, and repair history — with guidance on sympathetic fixes.
Specialised Research
Variants, markings, and market trends tracked over time, so you can buy and maintain with confidence.
Knowledge Highlights
- • Clockwork & governor basics for the “jumping” gait
- • Period-correct plush and stitching cues
- • Fastener types and plate finishes by era
- • Authenticity markers vs. common reproductions
- • Condition grading & gentle restoration steps
- • Storage climate and mainspring maintenance
- • Fair-market valuation signals
Ready to start your vintage toy journey?
Send us photos or questions — we’ll help verify authenticity, estimate value, and outline safe care steps.