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| Marchon YoYo Glow Ball |
| Exhibit #5205 |
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| Type | Production |
| Shape | Specialty |
| Color | Clear |
| Packaging | Bubble Carded |
| Construction | Multi-piece plastic |
| Response | None |
| Condition | Mint |
| Date | 1991 |
| Owner | Rick Brough |
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The Marchon YoYo Glow Ball from 1991. At the time, the YoYo Ball was new to the market. It has since been sold by various makers over the years including Knots, Inc., and Empire Industries. In 2024, the yo-yo ball it is still being manufactured but by Big Time Toys.
Unlike traditional yo-yos, this toy featured a retractable string mechanism that made it easier for kids to enjoy. The tagline "It Always Comes Back!" emphasized the toy's automatic return feature, making it popular among young children during the early '90s.
A key selling point for this version was its glow-in-the-dark capability, adding an extra element of fun, especially for play in dim settings. Marchon's design naturally encouraged a low-effort experience, appealing to those who wanted the entertainment of a yo-yo without the learning curve of mastering tricks. The product was marketed heavily, using TV commercials and store displays to attract attention in the early 1990s.
This yo-yo was assigned US patent 5127868 on July 7, 1992 to Marvin Smollar of Northbrook, IL for a "Holder and controller for yo-yo type toys." Patent assignee was Marchon, Inc. of Vernon Hills, IL.
The odd history behind Marchon
Marchon is best known today as a major eyewear manufacturer, but its history included ventures beyond fashion and optics. Founded in 1983, Marchon first built its reputation by selling high-quality, stylish eyeglass frames and sunglasses. Over the years, the company partnered with other popular brands like Calvin Klein, Nike, Lacoste, and Fendi, and went on to become one of the largest eyewear producers around the world.
In the early 1990s, Marchon moved into the toy market with products like the YoYo Ball. The toy appealed to children by offering an easy, entertaining alternative to standard yo-yos, including the version seen in this exhibit that glowed in the dark. This period of time was when yo-yos became a very popular trends due, in part, to the Smothers Brothers and their yo-yo man character. Despite the toy's debut success, Marchon's foray into the toy industry was short-lived. In 1994, its toy division and other assets were acquired by Empire of Carolina, marking the end of its involvement in children's products.
Of interest...
To see all glow in the dark yo-yos, yo-yo parts, and yo-yo accessories in this museum, click here. | |
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