Edgar Tozer began building bicycles under the Magnet brand around 1896. Motorcycle production began in 1902, and many of these were powered by Automoto engines. Some had the engine attached to the front down tube, and others had the engine located below the rider's seat. Drive was by twisted leather belt.
Albion-Magnet Cycle & Motor Works of Melbourne was established in 1903 by Moloney and Tozer. The firm built motorcycles, motor launches, omnibuses and automobiles.
In 1903 the Magnet adopted the Werner style, with the engine mounted centrally and low in the frame.
The partnership with Albion ended, and the business was offered for sale in May 1904 with a value of some £1500.
Edgar Tozer reappeared in short order trading as Magnet Motor Works, situated at 20 Nicholas Lane. There he built motorcycles until about 1913, at least one of which sported an NSU engine and Druid forks.
Other addresses:
1896
MR E. TOZER.
At the invitation of Mr Edgar Tozer we were afforded the opportunity of inspecting his premises, situated at 309 Lygon street, Carlton, and carried on as a cycle manufactory and agency. Although not long established, Mr Tozer has gained, through the merit of his work, an enviable reputation which has secured for him a very large connection, both in the town and in the country!
The "Magnet," a cycle constructed on the premises, is a highly finished, strong, faithfully built, up to date machine, and can be made to any weight or height of frame desired. The construction of the Magnet" is specially supervised by the proprietor.
Weekly Times (Melbourne, Vic.) Sat 29 Aug 1896
1904
ALBION-MAGNET Motor and Cycle Co.. 30
Bourke-st.- Motor Cycles. £37 10/; light Cars,
£150; Buses and Delivery Waggons, from £ 500.
ALBION-MAGNET - Just landed - Coil, Accumulators, Wires, Plug. Petrol Turn, Tank Lugs,
Porcelain. Our prices are right.
ALBION-MAGNET - Genuine bargain, 2-horse B.S.A. Minerva Motor, best offer over £35 takes It. Don't miss this.
ALBION-Magnet for Motor Repairs. Our Motor Garage is fully equipped, and we have the experience,
The Age, Sat 6 Feb 1904
1906
MAGNET Motor Co.— Engines, 3 and 4 h.p., just landed, overstocked, must sell; also 3½ Motor Cycle ; don't miss these.
MAGNET Motors stock, the best double sewn V Belts, Plugs, 1/3; Wire, 6d. yd.; S.H.. Motor
Cycle, £15, 20 Nicholas-l., off Bourke-st.
The Age, Sat 27 Oct 1906
Sources: Trove NLA; Robert Saward.
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