The magazine for men was not your average publication. Rather than being a “top shelf mag,” it was a journal catering to men who appreciated women. It was a humorous take on the idea of men being men and women being appreciated for their contributions. Described by The Times as “all about brave chaps with large moustaches on stiff upper lips, who did stupid and dangerous things,” the publication was first released in 1898 by George Newnes Publishing. The magazine ran stories submitted by readers, with a guarantee that they were genuine. However, after running a story that was quickly proven to be a hoax, the magazine was seriously embarrassed.
The magazine was targeted towards men, and this was reflected in the copious amounts of advertising. The ads were aimed at men and featured products that appealed exclusively to them. One such product was a heater for the car, which at the time, seemed like a novelty and was not expected to catch on.
However, in the 1990s, a similar product was purchased – a model yacht lamp that was almost identical to one featured in an advertisement from the magazine. It was described on TV as “prisoner of war” art, but the buyer was not convinced that this was the case. Instead, the lamp was thought to be either a scratch-built model or a kit from the days when woodworking was a popular pastime for men.
Hobbies Ltd, which was founded in 1895 to supply model kits and modelling accessories, is still trading and operating as a modelling supplier. The company is currently based in Dereham, Norfolk, and has remained true to its roots of supplying men with products they love.
In conclusion, the magazine for men was a unique publication that catered to men who appreciated women. It ran stories submitted by readers and focused on products and advertising that appealed exclusively to men. While some of the products advertised seemed like novelties at the time, they have since become staples in many households. Hobbies Ltd, which was founded in the same era as the magazine, has remained true to its roots and continues to supply hobbyists with products they love.
Posted by Torfaen Corvine on 2019-07-16 07:38:49