Derby

Derby, a 1970 electro-mechanical pinball machine from Elettrocoin of Firenze, Italy, is an intriguing addition to any serious collector's collection. It reflects the evolution of Italian-made EM games, and is believed to be a conversion kit based on Bally's 1966 'Gold Rush', though its playfield reportedly resembles Gottlieb's 1966 'Subway' more closely.

Derby boasts a combination of features typical for an EM game of its time: two flippers, four pop bumpers, and two slingshots. The inclusion of five standup targets adds an extra layer of challenge and strategy to gameplay, requiring players to carefully aim their shots to hit these targets while avoiding obstacles on the playfield.

The horse racing theme is a departure from more common pinball subjects at the time, such as space exploration or fantasy. Derby's artwork and design elements likely reflect the era's Italian flair, adding to its charm and value for collectors. Little information is available about the machine's designer or any specific production runs, but Derby remains an interesting find for those seeking Italian EM pinball history.