A motion delay mechanism is disclosed which can be mounted within the torso of an animated figure toy having articulated arms. A spring is used to rotate the arms and a governor is incorporated into the mechanism for the purpose of delaying movement of the arms.The governor features a worm gear which is used in conjunction with other gears to slow down rotation of the arms. A ratchet is used for selectively loading the spring and engaging the gears. The arms of the figure toy may be used to slowly move the hands of the toy through hair attached to the toy's head or to tilt the head backward.