Tuesday, October 27, 2009

CORGI 1/43 KOJACK'S BUICK


'Who loves ya, baby?'
If you've got the lollipop and the hairline's retreating swiftly, go the whole hog and buy Kojack's Buick. It's a re-release of an buy Kojack's Buick. It's a re-release of an old Corgi 70's favoutite, and now there's a white metal Kojak figure incorporated with the model, albeit a little over scale. He replaces the plastic Kojack and Crocker figures.
The brown Buick is the same moulding as ever, neatly finished with opening doors. The original colour of the model was a metallic dark brown; the new version is a more authentic light brown. However, there's a mystery surrounding the car that Kojak himself might not be able to fathom. The box says the model: 'was originally released in 1976 and included a mechanism recreating the sound of gun fire, which is still featured on this model.'
Either modern guns have better silencers than they did in 1976, or there is no mechanism on the new model. It used to be operated by a revolving toothed wheel at the rear of the car where the number plate should be, this produced a clicking gun noise. -- Model Collector See more

Sunday, October 25, 2009

CHEVROLET NOMAD - BLUE & WHITE


The American Chevrolet Nomad of 1957 is a car that sums up an era. The Chevrolet Nomad was a station wagon model produced by the Chevrolet Division of General Motors. The Nomad is best remembered in its two-door 1955-57 form, and was considered a halo model during its three-year production as a two-door station wagon. Yat Ming's release in blue and white sums up the charms of a car you could get the kitchen sink in and drive huge distances. The chrome work is really nicely done, particularly the dramatic rear wings. Inside the seats and dash are again very good. See more

Saturday, October 24, 2009

MAISTO 1/18 SCALE JAGUAR S TYPE


The Maisto 1/18th scale Jaguar S-Type captures the glamorous looks of the new saloon. Suffice it to say that in new limited edition metallic light lime green it is a hugely impressive as before. Really handsome detail touches make it the next best thing to owing a real one. See more

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

EFE 1/76 AEC 2RT2 - LONDON TRANSPORT


The first release of the newly-revised RT casting from EFE comes as one of the pre-war versions of the bus, in wartime livery, with single headlight and visibility markings. It captures the look of the vehicle very well. See more

VANGUARDS 1/43 JAGUAR XJ12 SERIES 1 SILVERSTONE FIRE TENDER



The first of seven Jaguar based Silverstone Fire Tenders, RHP133H started life as an X16 and was fitted with a V12 engine during its first career as an engineering development cart within Jaguar. The fire fighting equipment was designed by Chubb, but fitted to the vehicle at Jaguar. It involved fitting a 20-gallon tank in place of the back seat and a coiled hose in the boot. With the tank pressurised 100 gallons of AFFF foam can be discharged in 34 seconds.

CLASSIC LINES OF THE MASERATI 3200GT FROM BBURAGO in 1/18th SCALE

Maserati 3200 GT Coupe Diecast Model Red 1/18 Die Cast Car By Bburago

Just when most people were writing Maserati off as a producer of modern stylish GT cars, the company came up with the 3200 GT Bburago, as a good Italian company, had to make a model of the new car


Though few will be seen on British roads, it's still an attractive car to own in model form. Quality touches on he exterior include the disc brakes visible behind the wheel hubs, the well reproduced Maserati grille, separately moulded rear window mounted brake light and well detailed engine.


Opening doors, boot and bonnet are well finished, and inside it's all very luxurious. We liked the metal-look foot pedals and textured 'leather' of the seats particularly. Perhaps the dashboard dials and central console switches and trim (both reproduced by paper labels) were a bit over colouful, but this is a car no GT collection should be without--Model Collector

Monday, October 19, 2009

CORGI: MONKEEMOBILE


The Monkees were a pop rock quartet assembled by Robert "Bob" Rafelson and Bert Schneider in Los Angeles in 1966 for the American television series The Monkees, which aired from 1966 to 1968. The members were Americans Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Englishman Davy Jones, who were supervised and popularized by Don Kirshner.

At the time of the band's formation, its producers saw The Monkees as a Beatles-like band. At the start, the band members provided vocals, and were given some performing and production opportunities, but they eventually fought for and earned the right to collectively supervise all musical output under the band's name. The group undertook several concert tours, allowing an opportunity to perform as a live band as well as on the TV series. Although the show was canceled in 1968, the band continued releasing records until 1970. In the 1980s, the television show and music experienced a revival, which led to a series of reunion tours, and new records featuring various incarnations of the band's lineup.



The 1/43nd scale ‘Monkeemobile’ was an accurate model of the customized 1966 Pontiac GTO as seen every week on ‘The Monkees’ TV show. The body was bright red with a red and white phaeton hood which was cast with the body rather than as a separate plastic item. The hood should really have been all white to be 100 per cent correct, but otherwise this is a flawless model, the Monkees logo on the doors being authentic. As Monkeemania ran out of steam in the early 70s the Monkeemobile was discontinued, after only a two year run.

BMW 750i - JAMES BOND 007 "TOMORROW NEVER DIES"


The BMW 750i found fame in the Tomorrow Never Dies film during that amazing underground car park sceen. This is a rather nice model of the stylish BM, with some good detail touches in its own right, including well replicated lights and interior. But best of all is the two stage sunroof missile launcher. Press it once and the roof flips open, press it again and the missiles shoot a fair way.

DIECAST 1937 ROLLS ROYCE PHANTOM III - GOLDFINGER


40th Anniversary Edition 1937 Rolls Royce Phantom III-Goldfinger. The Ultimate James Bond Collection Girls, Gadgets and Cars Could it really be 40 years since Dr. No exploded on movie screens worldwide? In that time the 007 movies have set the standard for excitement, girls, gadgets, and, of course, cars. The National Motor Museum Mint is proud to present three of the most famous Bond cars, all precision crafted by master die cast maker Corgi. Rolls Royce Phantom III-Goldfinger 1937 Rolls Royce Phantom III- Auric Goldfingers personal car. Originally built for the Right Honorable Lord Fairhaven. Goldfinger replaced the body panels with pure gold as part of his smuggling operation. Model Features Running Boards Detailed Interior Baked Enamel Finish Precision Diecast Replica 1:32 Scale Model 5 Inches Long.

Saturday, October 17, 2009

REVELL 1/18 SCALE LLOYD ALEXANDER TS


The Lloyd Alexander TS was a post-war German baby car, big on character and big on engine noise. Light cars were very popular in Germany after the war, witness the bubble car. The Lloyd TS, introduced in 1956 was 25hp, and had an opening boot from the outside - not seen on most earlier Alananders.

The Revell version is a gem, with wonderful details including seperate lights, wing mirrors, door handles, etc. It captures very well the charm of the original. Even if you've never seen the actual vehicle you will fall in love with the model - it looks a little like a 50's Hillman Minx from some angles.

The suicide doors have been well reproduced, and inside the simple metal dash is captured nicely. Under the bonnet is a laughably uncomplicated, very well modelle, engine.

It's odd, but it's often smaller details that make even a large scale model succeed. I think the Lloyd wheelhubs are excellently done and the icing on the cake.--Model Collector

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

MAISTO 1/18 SCALE - CHEVROLET FLEETMASTER 'WOODY'


This is 1/18th scale 1948 Chevrolet Fleetmaster 'Woody' from Maisto. From its stunning 'bakelite' dash to its realistic wood effect this is one of the best models we've seen in any scale, particularly for the price. Features include: highly detailed die-cast metal body with plastic parts, opening doors, hood, and trunk on most styles, full function steering, four wheel suspension, detailed chassis with separate exhaust system and display stand and Maisto Showroom display packaging. See more

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

EXOTO 1/43 SCALE FERRARI 312T


One of the absolutely superb Grand Prix cars being offered by Exoto. This is the Ferrari 312T as driven in 1975 by Niki Lauda. The level of detail has to be seen to be believed: just look at the engine for example, or the finer detail of the instrument panel.

Friday, October 9, 2009

VANGUARDS 1/43 SCALE CATALOUGE MINI




On the front cover of the 1997 Vanguards catalogue appears a selection of Minis: some in white with white roofs, more in white with black roofs, and a single yellow model. The 50 white models (25 with white roof; 25 with black roof) were presented the Lledo trade launch of the 1997 range. As a result came requests for a model of the yellow Mini.

This has been produced as a special limited edition, marketed as the 1997 Vanguards Catalouge Edition. In yellow, the Mini looks very pleasing.

MATCHBOX: FORD CUSTOMLINE STATION WAGON



The model release testified to the magnitude of the USA market as it was an American Ford Customline Station Wagon which became 31a. A colour trial model has been found in red but the release colour was yellow. Red tail-lights featured on early examples and the usual change involving axles common to other vehicles also occurred with this model. Grey plastic wheels replaced metal wheels during 1958.

Thursday, October 8, 2009

JAMES BOND 007 'GOLDFINGER' ASTON MARTIN DB5


The James Bond Goldfinger film, starring Sean Conner and Honor Blackman , was released in 1964 and became an instant success. The film company Eron Productions commissioned Aston Martin for use of two DB5 Aston for the film, and also used both cars for the following film Thunderball. The Aston Martin is a well-known car, and this version in a 1/43 scale diecast model is certainly very pleasing. Look in particular at the fine wheels and an ejector seat which threw the figure of the Korean guard from a spring loaded roof hatch. The silver paint finish has been well applied. A fine model of a classic car. See more.

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

NOREV 1/18th SCALE - RENAULT CARAVELLE


The Caravelle replaced the Floride Coupe in the early 1960s. The Caravelle introduced many improvements to the interior, exterior and power plant. The model comes as a coupe, with a hard top option and includes opening doors, bonnet and boot. See more.

Saturday, October 3, 2009

BBURAGO 1/18 - 1961 JAGUAR E TYPE COUPE

1961 Jaguar E Type Coupe Diecast Model Red 1/18 Die Cast Car By Bburago

The Jaguar E-Type Coupe comes in red: a beautiful model which has extremely good interior detail, superb wheels, and fine other detailing such as the front and rear lamps and the flush glazing. A very good model.

MATCHBOX: DENNIS TIPPAX



The final issue of 1963 was a Dennis Tippax refuse truck (15c) with opening tail-gate, which replaced the Rotinoff Super Atlantic tractor at No.15 to become 15c in November. It was a considerable improvement on the first refuse truck in that it featured not only a tipping container but also an opening loading door.
The cab, base and chassis were always painted blue whilst the container and door was painted grey. Side decals advertising ‘Cleansing Service’ were fitted, originally shaped to match the lines of the container in that they were rounded off at the front and angled to the rear. Later these were replaced by rectangular decals with squarely cut ends. The final models had labels affixed.
The base of the chassis originally terminated behind the rivet but this was soon altered such that a brace connected both fuel tanks. The container is usually found with a hole in the front but some of the earliest models did not have this hole. All models were fitted with black plastic wheels but earlier models had knobby wheels whereas later versions had fine or very fine tread wheels.
The Tippax Refuse Truck remained in the range for five years until it was replaced in November 1968 by the Volkswagen 1500 Saloon. By that time the Ford Refuse Truck had been included in the Matchbox series for almost two years.--Model Collector

Friday, October 2, 2009

MOTORMINT 1/18 SCALE - 1937 PEUGEOT 402 ECLIPSE


The origin of the Peugeot 402's nickname, Sochaux Rocket, came from its factory in Sochaux, France and its appearance, not its speed. Powered by a 55hp. 4-cylinder engine, it was a family car not a race car. But its aerodynamic streamlined appearance, copied from the Citroen 7CV and Chrysler Airflow, gave it a rocket-like look.To add to the smooth lines, the headlights are hidden behind the grille. Although Peugeot had been making cars since 1888, it was the 75,000 402's produced between 1935 and 1940 that cemented their reputation. The Top is in the Trunk Invented in 1931, the Peugeot 402 Eclipse was the first car with a motorized retractable hardtop, beating the Ford Skyliner by 20 years.

This 1:18 scale replica is a blueprint-perfect copy of this groundbreaking cabriolet. Looking closely you can see the headlights hidden behind the grille. The suicide doors open showing the interior with its oddly placed shift. And the trunk is big enough for the top, 2 pieces of luggage and a removable full spare tire. Clean, crisp and just plain gorgeous, it is a must for the serious collector. Model Features Opening Hood Opening Doors Opening Trunk 4-Cylinder Engine is Wired and Plumb The 402 Eclipse Can Be Displayed with Top Up or Down Besides the Retractable Hardtop, the Trunk Contains Removable Suitcases and Full Spare Tire Precision Diecast Replica 1:18 Scale Model 11.5 Inches Long. See more.

BBURAGO 1/18 MASERATI 3200 GT

Maserati 3200 GT Coupe Diecast Model Black 1/18 Die Cast Car By Bburago


Maserati 3200 GT Coupe Diecast Model Black 1/18 Die Cast Car By Bburago

Another fine model from Bburago, this time the Maserati 3200 GT of 1998. Improved detail is becoming the order of the day throughout the model industry, and this model is certainly living up to the standards being set.

Apart from the usual 'operating' features, such as the opening doors, bonnet and boot, and rear lamps, the dashboard detail, the engine, and especially the wheels. With a first class paint finish, and all the parts fitting perfectly, this is certainly a fine addition to any collection.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

VANGUARDS 1/43 JAGUAR XK120 PALE GREEN METTALIC



The Jaguar XK120 was built between 1948-1954 of which 7631 were produced and was fitted with a six cylinder DOHC engine with 160bhp and a top speed of 120mph. It's certainly a superb model and is, without doubt, one of the best Corgi made. From every angle of view the graceful lines of the Jaguar are accurately portrayed with a perfect, smooth, casting finish and a consistently even paint application. The paint finish on the pale green mettalic models seems to be much finer than the rest and is the most desirable colour in the Jaguar model collecting field. See more.

THE CUSTOM AND CLASSIC: VW BEETLE



This is a range, initially featuring models of Volkswagens, which carry the name of the collection on the baseplate. In other words, these offer the opportunity for collectors to start a collection.

The colours and decorations chosen are all authentic, capturing the look of the 50s and 60s. The first two cars are the VW Beetle in light blue and cream, and the cabiolet in yellow. There are also two vans – see under ‘Commercials’.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

BBURAGO 1/18 BMW Z3 ROADSTER

BMW Z3 M Roadster Diecast Model Red 1/18 Die Cast Car By Bburago


We have now seen the BMW Z3, which is well up to the very high standards set by Bburago in this scale. It features a wealth of fine detail, particularly under the bonnet and in the cockpit, the head and rear lights being authentically reproduced. Equally, a highly detailed engine is provided, while the interior of the car is superb, especially in the area of the dashboard. Good attention has also been paid to the wheels, while the paint finish is superb.

Friday, September 25, 2009

MOTORMINT: 1941 WILLYS U.S. JEEP


Commemorating the 65th Anniversary of the Attack on PEARL HARBOR 1941 Willys U.S. Army Jeep . A tribute in die-cast metal to two American-made workhorse vehicles that efficiently moved our men and supplies during WWII Jeep Features Spare Gas Can Dual Duffle Bags Orignal Drab Olive Paint Side Mounted Axe & Shovel Spare Tire Attached to Rear Precision DieCast Replica 1:32 Scale Model 4.5 Inches Long

MOTORMINT: 1941 CHEVROLET U.S. HICKAM AIR FIELD & WILLYS JEEP


Commemorating the 65th Anniversary of the Attack on PEARL HARBOR 1941 Chevrolet U.S. Hickam Air Field Flatbed 1941 U.S. Willys Army Jeep A tribute in die-cast metal to two American-made workhorse vehicles that efficiently moved our men and supplies during WWII Flatbed Features: Opening Hood Opening Cab Doors Baked Enamel Finish Dual Running Boards Hickam Air Field Markings Flatbed Comes With Towing Chains Spare Tire Located Under Truck Bed Towing Hooks Attached To Truck Bed Precision Die-Cast Replica 1:32 Scale Model 8.25 Inches Long Jeep Features Spare Gas Can Dual Duffle Bags Original Drab Olive Paint Side Mounted Axe & Shovel Spare Tire Attached at Rear Precision DieCast Replica 1:32 Scale Model 4.5 Inches Long.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

DINKY TOYS: POLICE LAND ROVER


A natural inclusion in the range was a police version, although it took until 1978 to make an appearance. The model is very dark blue, with the same lift-off hardtop as used on the Bomb Disposal Unit, but moulded in white plastic. It has a roof mounted beacon and 'Police' stickers. A plastic policeman is included. The towing hook, featured on all earlier Land Rovers except the Fire Appliance, is omitted from the Police version.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

IXO 1/43 FERRARI 158 - ITALIAN GRAND PRIX 1964




An interesting model, consisting of the Ferrari 158 which won the Italian Grand Prix in 1964 driven by John Surtees. Renowned model manufacturer IXO has released the fifteenth model in their 1/43 La Storia collection. The replica is presented in delightful book style luxury packaging.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

MATCHBOX: FORD FAIRLANE



The Ford Fairlane first seen as a police car was also used as the base for a Fire Chief's car. It was released in June to replace the Singer Van. This model had not previously been announced and so it is presumed that it was a sudden decision to use the same vehicle as 55b in a change of colour and guise in that it was now a red Fire Chief's car (59b), instead of the police car. At the same time a large Matchbox Fire Station was manufactured and so this car complemented the release.

The red Fairlane came with door and bonnet decals in two sizes. Though the interior was ivory, the roof light was white. Black plastic wheels were normally fitted but grey plastic wheels have also been found. Silver wheels have also been reported but not authenticated.

Thursday, September 10, 2009

YAT MING 1/18 SHELBY COBRA 427 S/C DIECAST MODEL

1964 Shelby Cobra 427 S/C Diecast Model Red 1/18 Die Cast Car By Yat Ming

I started out with an idea to build a sports car powered by an American V8 at a time when most European sports cars were being imported with four-cylinder 1918 taxi cab engines.I went to AC Cars, because they had an available chassis, and i went to see Lee laccoca at Ford for a little money and a couple of engines to help me get started.We never dreamed we'd build a car to win the world championship and everything else, or become the legend it has.The Cobra has become the most replicated car there has ever been.I think that says it all right there. --Carroll Shelby

Shelby Cobra 427 S/C finished in red metal with twin white stripes from front to back. Many chromed parts, detailed interior, opening doors, bonnet and boot, detailed engine , moveable chromed wheels with treaded tyres, model length approx 21cm.

CORGI CLASSIC: BEDFORD CA DORMOBILE 'AUXILIARY FIRE SERVICE'


The Bedford CA Dormobile comes as a Personnel Carrier for the Auxiliary Fire Service. Launched in 1952 the Bedford CA 10/12 cwt van featured semi-forward control, a 1.5 litre petrol engine and sliding doors. A 15cwt long wheelbase model was added in 1959 and in 1964 came an improved, face lifted Mk.2 version. Production ended in 1969. This should prove a popular addition to any 'fire' collection, being a rather unusual model.

Saturday, August 29, 2009

LLEDO VANGUARDS: 1/43 FORD 100E



How many memories will come rushing back with the Ford 100E, another fine rendition by Lledo. Again the once so-familiar shape has been captured perfectly on the model, which once more reveals the careful attention to fine detail that Lledo is ensuring appears on these models.

VANGUARDS: 1/43 ROVER P4


This is the Rover P4, a beautiful model which has captured the distinctive shape of this car, from the era when cars did indeed have distinctive shapes by which they were instantly recognised. This vintage replica features the updated 1959 model. During the P4's 14 year history it underwent no fewer than 11 variants. Features include distinctive grille and its recessed bars, new style number plate and photo-etched chrome detail, the model is mounted on a removable plinth with a hard plastic cover. The model looks particularly smart in the deep maroon chosen for the initial release. Worth nothing are the seperately painted dividers in the rear windows. The radiator, in the characteristic Rover style, is fully chromed.

Matchbox Models of Yesteryear Y-18C 1918 Atkinson Steam Lorry

    Matchbox Models of Yesteryear Y-18C 1918 Atkinson Steam Lorry was made in England by Matchbox International in 1986. It is 11 cm long an...