It’s been a staple of many children’s rooms since Victorian times, but the rocking horse’s roots date back to the Middle Ages and the advent of the hobby horse – a broom-like stick with a mounted horse head that became one of the more popular children’s toys of the age.

With the addition of four legs, a carved body and a curved stand producing that trademark movement, the rocking horse was born. Often wooden, the toy provided endless hours of entertainment before they fell out of favour as production dropped during the First World War and Great Depression, and many feared the art form would be lost. Thankfully, teams of skilled artisans such as the Stevenson Brothers have preserved the traditional craft.

Often passed down from generation to generation, a rocking horse can have strong sentimental value. But the value of a Stevenson Brothers piece goes well beyond that. While traditional toys are giving way to technological marvels, handcrafted items haven’t lost their appeal, with the Crystal Zebra designed to delight children and adults, helping it hold its value well.

That’s down chiefly to the more than 80,000 hand-placed black and clear Swarovski crystals that evoke the stripes on the eye-catching equine. This is the second model created in partnership with Fernandes Exquisite Creations, specialists in the use of Swarovski crystals. The first was a one-off rocking horse called Crystal which boasted the same number of crystals and was featured in a documentary showcasing the craftsmanship behind some of the world’s most expensive toys.

The Crystal Zebra is already an heirloom in the making and further customisation can add to its personal feel. Options include adding a horseshoe to its base, personalised carvings and engravings, plaques, embroidered wording, designs on the saddle and an embellished brow band. From US$124,000

2. Hermès Bolide on Wheels

3. Ferrari 330 P2 Junior

This fully functional, 6/10 scale Ferrari 330 P2 was produced by renowned carmakers De La Chapelle. Just five of these cars are thought to exist today. Last year, one sold for US$135,000 at a Bonham’s auction, earning it the title of the world’s most expensive toy car. Price on request.

4. 24k Gold PlayStation PS5