Item is from the 1940's. I did a little research and it says that an Item can be considered a antique on some items at 50 years. I guess cars can be different here in FL. lol either way Item is more than 50yo.
technically, an item that is 100 years old or more, is considered antique. so, each year, many new antiques enter the marketplace. However, Western Germany would indicate before or during WW2. So, most folks say that this is "vintage" even though that's a vague term that actually means nothing without a number on it. I think it's fine to put your toy under antiques. I collect little old toys and I'd consider it an antique in the broad sense of the word, but not technically. No matter, though, it's a wonderful little set with the box and I think it's great.
We have this one town close to us that is known for antiques. One street has nothing but antique shops. They try to sell items from the 80's and 90's as antiques.