Assemblo

Updated 1 June 2022

Assemblo was introduced in France in 1930. It is similar to Dinky Builder, which was introduced by Meccano in 1934, but the two systems are not compatible because dimensions are different. Models are assembled using rods to form hinged joints, with hinge axes in the planes of parts. Nuts and bolts are not used. Completed models are usually rigid. The rods are 3 mm diameter and are either 16, 30, 55, 65, 75, 100, 113, 135, 173 or 210 mm long. There are also some bent rods. Parts are in plain colours and are green, red, grey or white. There is a wide range of shapes, some with cut outs. Pulleys are 24 mm diameter, railway wheels 27, 36 and 43 mm diameter, and wheels with tyres 39 and 60 mm diameter. They are free to rotate but can be kept in position by push on clips. A tool was provided for assembly and dismantling. The system works reasonably well when parts are in good condition but second hand parts are often distorted. This has to be corrected before they can be used. A drift and a pair of half round nose pliers are useful. Assemblo was available as a progressive series of numbered Boites (sets), starting at 0, which could be transformed into the next number by an appropriate complementary set. Numbered Boites did not include pulleys, railway wheels, or wheels with tyres. These were available in two supplementary sets, Assemblo Complément Supplément A and Assemblo Complément Supplément B. Instructions in manuals include parts lists, but not rod lists, and are otherwise purely pictorial. They are usually easy to follow, but selection of appropriate rods can be difficult. For more information on an item click the link. Except wherw noted items are in unused condition.