Very well done and Accurate Unkie...The release dates are known for these models:) Its the Serial runs that are the elusive part.
Exactly as we discussed,the Automatic and Model 4/Special crossed paths,but only ever so briefly because of the demise of the Automatic. The main issue with prevoious information was the the fact of the Specials" existance as a model 4 before the model 5 was released. Many believe it was never released before the introduction of the Model 5... I have since many times found different,having owned original examples of shall we say Model 4 Specials,and my own research. But I This ad youve produced confirms this to be the case!!!And place the Use of the term Special" before the start of the Model 5 was released...Fantastic detective work Unkie,Your doing a fabulous Job in piecing together time lines and actuall existance of Models Prior to their percieved release dates..
The other very Important piece of info youve found lies in the third ad "2 Mighty Petrol Mowers" Note the STD for this era is the Model 2a,this proves also that even though the 2a serial preceded that of the Automatic,they were still being sold together,At least into the early run of the Automatic,and possibly up to the release of the Model 3 STD. This would ensure Victa always had 2 models at any one time. The Special and the STD... Through a little research and enthusiasm youve managed to dispel a few myths that were retained by collectors and add valuable information to the archives..Well Done!!!!
