Chris Ingledue – Vintage Toy Expert
Reuniting Adults with their Favorite Toys Since 1999
In the ever-evolving tapestry of modern life, where nostalgia often seems elusive for specific historical eras, a universal tether exists to simpler times—our childhood. The mere thought of those days can evoke a profound sense of warmth and sentimentality. Childhood homes and friends contribute, but the tangible artifacts of our youth, the cherished toys, possess the remarkable power to transport any adult, regardless of origin, back into a world brimming with memories. Wheeljack’s Lab and its owner, Chris Ingledue, a vintage toy expert for over 2 decades, transport their customers back to their fondest moments.
Chris Ingledue, born in 1971 and a native of the United States, immersed himself in the enchanting universe of toys during the late 1970s, captivated particularly by the epic saga of Star Wars. As a fervent enthusiast of action figures, young Chris could be spotted fashioning intricate scenes with his beloved characters, creating a realm of imagination within the confines of his home. Always indulging in toys, he constantly showed a passion for them and regularly talked about them to everyone, even his future wife, whom he met in the second grade. Over the years, his passion expanded, and by 1991, he found himself at the helm of a growing collection, an assembly of action figures that surpassed mere hobbyist pursuits.
The birth of the internet marked an essential moment for Chris. With enthusiasm, he leaped into the dynamic world of toy trading, becoming an international intermediary. As a conduit between collectors worldwide, Chris cultivated one of the most extensive Star Wars action figure collections in the United States. Eventually, his dedication led him to part ways with this trove after years of meticulous curation. This decision unfolded over six months.
Undeterred by change, Chris’s insatiable appetite for the nostalgic essence of toys pivoted to a new focal point in 1999—reuniting adults with their cherished playthings. Today, Chris describes his vocation as more than buying and selling vintage Generation 1 Transformers and many other iconic toy lines. He peddles not just toys but the emotions and memories they carry—the indescribable joy encapsulated in each Optimus Prime or G.I. Joe figurine. Beyond the transactions, he has become a custodian of nostalgia, facilitating the rekindling of childhood love for toys, irrespective of geographical boundaries, age, or time. Chris Ingledue, now a vintage toy expert, has to this day impacted nearly 200,000 collectors. He is continuously selling and purchasing vintage collections while simultaneously blogging about vintage toys.
In his quest to encapsulate the diverse spectrum of childhood memories, Chris Ingledue’s venture surpasses the confines of a singular toyline. Today, his expansive catalog encompasses over 200+ different toylines, creating a veritable treasure trove for nostalgia enthusiasts. Whether it’s the heroic exploits of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the fantastical realm of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, or the adrenaline-fueled excitement of Redline Hot Wheels, Chris has curated a diverse assortment that resonates with collectors from all walks of life. Each figurine, vehicle, or playset encapsulates the essence of a particular toyline and the collective sentimentality shared by generations. Through his dedication and discerning eye, Chris, a renowned vintage toy expert, continues to bridge the gap between adults and their cherished childhood playthings, fostering a timeless connection that transcends the boundaries of age and era.