6 Erector Sets – The Fascinating Journey Through Time
Erector Sets have been a symbol of creativity, engineering, and hands-on learning for over a century. Introduced in 1913 by A.C. Gilbert, these iconic metal construction sets became a staple in American households, inspiring generations of young engineers and inventors.
Gilbert, a trained magician and entrepreneur, envisioned a toy that would spark curiosity in mechanical engineering while allowing children to build functional models. The first Erector Sets included metal beams, nuts, bolts, pulleys, and gears, enabling kids to construct everything from bridges and cranes to Ferris wheels and cars.
By the mid-20th century, building Sets had become one of the most popular STEM toys of their time, and many engineers and architects credit them as early inspirations for their careers.
However, as plastic-based toys gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, the brand struggled to maintain its market share. In 2000, the Meccano company, founded in 1898 in England, acquired the Erector brand, merging the two historic construction toy lines.
What are Erector Sets?
They are classic construction toys that allow kids to build mechanical models using metal beams, nuts, bolts, gears, and small tools.
These sets often include motorized components, enabling children to create moving structures like cranes, bridges, cars, and robots.
They provide a hands-on introduction to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) principles, making them a favorite among young builders and future engineers.
Today, Meccano continues the legacy of Construction Sets, offering modern versions with advanced features such as programmable robotics and motorized vehicles while maintaining the original spirit of mechanical engineering play.
Erector vs. Meccano: Then and Now
| Feature | Vintage Erector Sets (1913-1990s) | Modern Meccano Kits (Today) |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | Metal beams, nuts, bolts, gears | Metal and plastic parts for lighter, flexible designs |
| Assembly Tools | Wrenches, screwdrivers | Ergonomic tools included for easier handling |
| Model Types | Bridges, cranes, Ferris wheels, cars | Motorized supercars, robots, programmable models |
| Motorization | Basic electric motors with manual wiring | Battery-powered motors, programmable robotics |
| Technology | Purely mechanical, with no electronics | Some kits include coding and app-based controls |
| STEM Learning | Focus on mechanical engineering | Expanded to robotics, coding, and STEM education |
| Complexity Level | Advanced; required patience and precision | Beginner-friendly to expert-level kits |
| Brand Evolution | A.C. Gilbert's Erector Sets (USA) | Meccano (global brand since 2000) |
| Availability | Vintage collector's items | Available worldwide as Meccano |
What Has Changed?
✔ More Accessibility – Modern kits cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced builders.
✔ STEM Integration – Coding, robotics, and motorized functions add a high-tech element.
✔ Material Update – Lighter materials make building more manageable for younger kids.
✔ Nostalgic Appeal – Many Meccano kits still feature classic metal parts, keeping the spirit of construction sets alive.
The best mechanical building sets
Before, I list the six best construction sets, let me return to the 1950s when, at the age of six, I received an unforgettable gift—a metal construction set that allowed me to build cranes, bridges, and mechanical wonders with small screws and bolts.
It was more than just a toy; it was an invitation to explore the engineering world, a gateway to endless creativity.
These metal sets were sold under the legendary brand created by A.C. Gilbert. They were robust and intricate and required patience and precision. I remember sitting on the floor, my tiny hands fumbling with the nuts and bolts, assembling a towering crane I could manually control.
Each piece fit together with purpose, and the sense of accomplishment after tightening the final screw was unmatched.
Fast-forward to today, and the legacy of my childhood toy lives on under a new name: Meccano Sets. Now owned by Spin Master, Meccano continues to inspire young minds with modernized versions of classic construction sets.
Locomotiva Meccano costruita mediante elementi metallici perforati, viti, dadi e bulloni. Venne inventato e brevettato nel 1901 da Frank Hornby, commesso di Liverpool, e venne poi prodotto dal 1908 al 1980 dalla Meccano Ltd di Liverpool.
1. Meccano 25-in-1 Motorized Supercar STEM Model Building Kit
This versatile construction set is designed to engage builders aged 10 and up in creating a variety of motorized vehicles.
With this kit, enthusiasts can assemble up to 25 different models, one at a time, including a sleek supercar. This offers both creativity and educational value.
Key Features:
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Beyond Meccano, several other brands offer construction toys that encourage creativity and engineering skills in children. Here are some notable alternatives available on Amazon:​
2. LEGO
LEGO is a renowned brand offering interlocking plastic bricks and gears, allowing the creation of various structures and mechanisms. The LEGO 42146 Technic Gru is a popular set that fosters open-ended building.
3. k'nex
The K'NEX 100 Model Building Set features interlocking plastic rods and connectors to build intricate models. It provides components to construct various designs, promoting STEM learning. ​
4. brio
Known for wooden toys, BRIO offers erector sets for kids, like the Builder Construction Set, enabling children to craft imaginative structures. ​brio.co.uk
5. Magna-tiles
Provides magnetic building tiles that allow the creation of 2D and 3D structures, enhancing spatial and fine motor skills. The Magna-Tiles 32-Piece Clear Colors Set is a favorite among young builders. ​
6. Tinkertoy
Classic construction toys featuring spools, rods, and connectors to build various models. The TINKERTOY 100 Piece Essentials Value Set offers components for endless creative possibilities.​
These brands provide diverse construction toys for various Age groups and skill levels, all available on Amazon.
