Unlicensed TM Peter Sam

On a slight tangent, I've always wondered if these versions are actually unlicensed, or if Mattel (FP?) has licensed them, but just doesn't make a big deal about their existence? I say this because I would think Mattel has to be aware that they exist, and in order to protect your intellectual property rights, you have to actively enforce those rights. Meaning that if Mattel didn't actively seek to cease the manufacturing and distribution of these toys, then I think they could risk their trademark/copyright etc. 

I'm certainly no IP attorney, nor did I sleep at a holiday inn last night, so I may be missing a big chunk of the story.


And I too have one of the "unlicensed" Dukes. My major gripe about this version of Duke, is the little piece of plastic near the front wheels is uncolored. This piece is painted silver in the earlier versions, and I think it really makes the whole engine "pop" so to speak. In addition, and perhaps similar to Peter Sam, the color is much lighter than the earlier versions. See below for quick reference.