Back in the mid 1970’s, I was prone to bouts of tonsillitis, and, as was the fashion back then, I went into hospital for a tonsillectomy. Apart from a spectacular bout of coughing up blood a few days later, everything was unremarkable.

But that’s not what I remember most vividly.

Certainly the diet of jelly and icecream were a highlight, but within 6 months I had forgotten them.

I remember receiving 687 Caravelle Aeroplane around this time. The wings were the first ‘non rectangular’ elements that I owned, the printed bricks were terrific as a way to represent the windows, and the wheels. They offered a special challenge.

The set was released in 1973 and remained in the catalogue until 1975. It had 43 parts.

The wheel needed the tyre to be added, and then placed in its frame. There were three of these wheels. Until I stood on one a year or two later. Then I had 2. This was probably the first element I remember breaking.

On a positive note, I was always frustrated with the ‘slow normal jet’ design, and I remember attempting to rotate the wings 90° for a sleek, swept back Concorde like look.

This is probably one of the first sets that I remember actively swooshing – waving around while making jet engine noises.

Years later some tragedy befell one of the wings- it might have been dropped in the backyard, in front of a bicycle. Or stepped on. Certainly one broke.

Fortunately, a couple of years later, the space sets introduces a wider range of wing elements. However, the Caravelle Aeroplane was my introduction to swept back wing elements, and swooshing.

All because I had my tonsils taken out.

I’m sure you’d like to hear from someone other than me…

We all have that special set: maybe a favorite build, maybe the set that got you interested in something, maybe the first set you ought as an adult. If you have a LEGO Set that evokes special memories for you and would like to share your story, send me an email: ramblingbrick@gmail.com , or reach out on Facebook or Instagram.

Until Next Time,

Play Well!