EDITORIAL
By Rod Ward
POLICING THE LICENSE FEESIt seems that every time I talk to one of the specialist artisan model manufacturers these days a topic that always arises in the conversation is that of licensing. Nobody denies the right of copyright holders to protect their brands and designs, but the pressure from licensing agents (many apparently working on commission) to dredge up every little craftsman to impose fees is making many lives a misery. Some examples from conversations in the past month: A model firm was asked for thousands of Dollars up front, and six samples for assessment, when the most the maker expected to produce was 20 items. Understandably the project was dropped. Another firm who has been paying 'sensible' license fees for years to a vehicle manufacturer found that a new agent had been appointed, quadrupling this year's fee, with the expectation that over the next two years it will double again, jeopardising the future of these models, which are now unprofitable. Another range has effectively shut down, in despair at the impossibility of affording the fees, though without any formal announcement, in future just selling 'old stock'. Yet another maker was taken aback, during negotiations on fees payable for a famous marque, to be asked 'What liveries, sponsors etc will be used on the model? Then we can contact the agent for those brands to make sure you have the right to use them'. Now the licensing agents are even policing brands they don't control!
Speaking of policing, the latest entrant to the licensing field is London's Metropolitan Police, who are looking at ways of exploiting their famous name and charging royalties on toys, models and other products, even considering opening a gift shop to sell their own brand merchandise, perhaps at Heathrow airport. They have already signed a deal with Corgi, the first Vanguards in Met liveries to be released later this year, as noted in the Corgi news pages in this issue. So in future, if a tiny artisan range decides to make a few Metropolitan Police versions of one of their handbuilt models, a fee will be payable. The big companies who have paid will, understandably, insist that everyone else pays up as well.
And where the Met goes other Police Forces are likely to follow in due course. The Met say that all revenues raised will be ploughed back into suitable Police activities, so other Police authorities will have to take note of this as a way to raise funds which may ease some of the burden on the public purse. But in the long run, choice of Police models for collectors may be reduced, if small makers cannot afford the royalties...
MODEL CAR COMPANIES SOLD
I am told that June should see the finalising of the sale of Minimarque 43 to a new owner, almost a year after the tragic death of founder Richard Briggs in July 2002. I hope that the new proprietors will carry on the company in the same spirit that Richard always brought to it, and that they are able to successfully re-launch the range. There will be more news in future issues of whatever happens at Minimarque 43. The new owner of Somerville Models, Graham Ward of Promod, is getting his head round the complex task of relaunching this 1:43 scale white metal range. I hope to be able to give more detailed news of his plans very soon.
Roly McHard, widow of Somerville founder Doug, has asked me to pass on her thanks for all the good wishes expressed by collectors and members of the trade. Doug's well-known collection of scale flying model aircraft was successfully auctioned recently by Bonhams.
Some readers were intrigued by the rather cryptic advertisement for another model business for sale, in MAR 172. I cannot reveal what company this is, until I am permitted to do so by the creator and owner of the business. Anyone seriously interested in buying what is unquestionably the 'top of the tree' in model production should contact me. No time-wasters or tyre-kickers, please!
WE ARE CLOSED FOR JUNE
Modelauto Ltd and Model Auto Review will both be closed for all of June, for our annual holidays, which are actually in the middle of the month of June. Early in the month I'll be clearing the decks before we close, and at the end of the month I'll be trying to catch up again. When I returned last year I had a thousand emails in my inbox to process, and two crates of snail mail which had been waiting for me at the PO Box, as well as a massive pile of fax paper on the floor and a recording tape full of voicemail messages to deal with. You can send orders, letters or enquiries by mail, or email (I expect to have many more than a thousand waiting this year), or fax, or voicemail. Everything will be dealt with in strict order of receipt, when we return to the fray refreshed (I hope). See you in July.
Corgi second half 2003 releases
HERE is the news from Leicester, with Corgi's plans for their diecast ranges from July to December 2003. Fans of older commercial vehicles will be pleased with the 'Willenhall' cab BMC (and Austin-Morris) lorry, and the removal van series. The Vanguards Vauxhall Viva HB (pity it wasn't an HC with all the extra variants possible) and the Daimler version of the XJ6 Series 1 will please enthusiasts for British cars. The modern East Lancashire bodied double decker will fill a gap on bus collectors' shelves. The big scale Mustang, Wright Flyer and 1:72 Focke Wulf 190 will keep aviation enthusiasts happy. And there will be lots for televison and film collectors, including all the James Bond series upgraded with more detail, among them the Rolls-Royce model, complete with its mascot. We have indicated the month of release as promised by Corgi, but previous experience tells us that some may slip as the year goes on. For instance, already we have been told that 'due to a problem with the tooling associated with the Rover 2000 P6' the Vanguards model VA06509 in willow green has been cancelled and is completely deleted from the range. This was to have been in the new Anniversary Limited Edition range, and will be replaced in this series with a Ford Cortina Mark II, of which the model number and colour will be advised later.
HAULIERS OF RENOWN
CC12911 Scania Topline curtainside Knights of Old 50th Anniversary July CC13206 DAF XF SC bulk tipper Reids July CC12217 Scania 4 Series with flat Crane artic trailer & load Marley August CC13103 Volvo F88 Tautliner Elldis August CC12707 ERF ECS Feldbinder tank artic Turners Aug CC12218 Scania 4 Series dropside Crane trailer Ian Craig September CC12912 Scania Topline curtainside Sanderson Sept CC12107 Renault Premium tractor unit Dukes Sept CC12418 Volvo FH Globetrotter curtainside Harry Lawson October CC12708 ERF ECS Petrol tank artic Jet October CC13208 DAF XF SC Tractor unit Prestons Potto Nov CC12709 ERF ECS Feldbinder tank Blue Circle Nov CC12913 Scania Topline curtainside Alun Jones Nov CC12808 Scania T bulk tipper John Toulson Dec CC12219 Scania 4 Series Crane trailer + load Marshalls Landscape Transformers Dec HEAVY HAULAGE CC13104 Volvo F88 3-ax low load Hoveringham Aug CC11102 Scammell Contractor Parker Bent Sept CC13209 DAF XF 4 axle Ballast tractor, Nicholas bogies + load TSL EDDIE STOBART CC13301 BMC 2 axle dropside lorry July CC07706 Land Rover Defender August CC12610 Scammell Crusader 3 axle low load Sept CC13207 DAF XF SC flat artic October CC10805 Foden S21 4 axle flat lorry November LAND ROVER DEFENDER CC07705 Land Rover 110 County station wagon Arrow red July CC07708 Land Rover 110 Post Bus Royal mail Oct THE FINAL CHAPTER - BRIAN HARRIS CC99131 Albion 2 axle flat lorry 'Moorland Princess' & ERF KV 2 axle dropside lorry 'Happy Wanderer' Harris & Miners September ON THE MOVE CC11406 Bedford TK Luton van Pickfords September CC11407 Bedford TK Luton van Hoults October CC13303 Morris Luton van Bishops Move 150th Anniversary November CC11408 Bedford TK Luton van Ulster Transport Dec MINI MANIA CC82227 Mini Miglia Beechdean dairies Cadbury Aug CC82228 Mini Miglia Canada GT Series Bolger Sept 999 CC06304 Daimler Ambulance N. Ireland Hospitals Jul CC13006 Dennis F12 Pump ladder Hartlepool August CC07707 Land Rover 110 Gt Manchester FS Sept CC10306 AEC Water crash tender Notts CC FS Oct CC07709 Land Rover 110 Metropolitan police Nov US06004 Dodge Monaco Chicago PD May US06005 Dodge Monaco California HP August US06006 Dodge Monaco NY State Police December HEROES UNDER FIRE: US issues US53507 ALF 700 open cab fire appliance Conshocken PA July US53508 ALF 700 open cab fire appliance Boston MA August US60808 Seagrave K open cab fire appliance Delanco NJ October US53806 Mack CF tower ladder fire appliance Green Tree PA November US52507 Seagrave Anniversary tractor drawn aerial ladder fire appliance Boston, MA September VINTAGE BUS LINES: US issues US54405 GM4501 Scenicruiser Greyhound Pittsburgh US54406 GM4501 Scenicruiser Greyhound Chicago Aug US54017 GM45009 Old Look DBL De Camp NJ July US54107 GM43610 Old Look MCL Montgomery AL (the famous 'Rosa Parks' bus) October ANNIVERSARY EDITIONS TY86624 Scania curtainside Knights of Old 50th Anniversary August TY86712 Volvo Rigid plus close coupled trailer Bishops Move 150th Anniversary November GOLD STAR SPECIAL (GS stockists only) CC20107 Fowler B6 Showmans Murphy August BOXED GIFT SETS CSCA03005 100 Years of flight gift set + book August CSVR01004 Royal British Legion set August CP10502 Ltd edition Circus cage artic Made for Royal Mail including five stamps August PREMIUM EDITIONS CC13105 Volvo F88 flat artic BRS July CC13302 Austin 2 axle flat BRS September CC10204 ERF V 3 axle dropside BRS November TELEVISION AND FILM JAMES BOND: all upgraded with extra detail CC07603 Jaguar XKR & Zao figure July CC07503 Aston Martin V12 Vanquish July CC06803 Rolls-Royce & Oddjob figure July CC04306 Aston Martin DB5 & figures July CC04602 Gyrocopter & Bond figure July CC04904 BMW Z3 & figuresJuly CC05104 BMW 750i July CC05004 BMW Z8 July CC04512 Lotus Esprit Underwater car July CC04704 Lotus Esprit Turbo July RED DWARF TY96401 Red Dwarf & Lister Figure September TY96402 Starbug & Rimmer Figure September TY96501 Red Dwarf, Starbug, Rimmer, Lister Sept THUNDERBIRDS CC00601 Thunderbirds FAB 1 September NODDY TY885017 Noddy and Tessie bear in plane July TY885002 Mr Sparks in breakdown truck July TY885003 Big ears on bike July there is also a new smaller scale Noddy range... DOCTOR WHO TY96101 Bessie (car) & Doctor Who Figure Sept TY96102 Tardis & K-9 Figure September TY96103 DALEK & Cyberman Figure September TY96104 Doctor Who & Davros Figure September TY96201 Bessie (car), Doctor Who, Dalek & K-9 Sept TY96202 Tardis, Davros, Dr Who & Cyberman Sept TY96203 40th Anniversary gift set September MR BEAN CC82224 Animated Mr Bean's Mini & figure August CC81201 Animated Mr Bean's Mini August ITALIAN JOB CC99138 Italian Job New BMW Mini set September CC86514 Italian Job New BMW Mini September WORLD WAR II RANGE DESERT CAMPAIGNS OF NORTH AFRICA CC60104 Churchill MkIII Tank British Army 'Kingforce' El Alamein 1942 October CC60004 SdKfz 7 Krauss-Maffei halftrack troop carrier Afrika Korps Tripoli 1941 October CC55108 Diamond T tank transporter RASC & M4 Sherman 2nd batt Ist Armoured Regt Nov CC51007 M4 A2 Sherman Trowbridge 9th Arm. Brig. Royal Wilts Yeomanry Syria 1943 Nove CC60303 Bedford QLD 7th Armoured Div, Desert Rats Libya 1942 December CC60105 Churchill MkIII tank British Army 145 (Duke of Wellington's) Regt RAC Tunis 1943 Dec FORGOTTEN HEROES: US issues US51904 Bell H-13 USMC Korea October US51008 M4A3 Sherman tank Tiger Face US Army Korea September Original Omnibus Co OM41007 AEC 4Q4 single deck bus London Transport (post war) July OM40506 Feltham tram centre entrance Met. July OM43102 Leyland Lynx MkI Ribble July OM42501 East Lancs Myllennium Lowlander Ipswich Buses centenary JUL OM40808 Bristol Lodekka FS Hants & Dorset August OM43306 Plaxton Premier Scottish Citylink August OM40403 AEC Regent Weymann London Trans Aug OM41104 Leyland PD2-East Lancs Stockport August OM42502 East Lancs Myllennium Vyking London General September OM45114 MCW Metrobus MkII Walsall September OM42902 Optare Delta Wilts & Dorset September OM43705 Trolleybus 3 axle Rotherham September OM41908 Leyland PD3-Queen Mary open top Provincial October OM43307 Plaxton Excalibur Dunn-Line October OM43002 Leyland Olympian-ECW Syagecoach Northwest October OM40809 Bristol Lodekka FS Crosville October OM42503 East Lancs Lolyne Nottingham November OM41008 AEC 4Q4 single deck bus London Transport (Central) November OM45710 AEC Q Double deck bus Halifax November OM41105 Daimler CVG6-East Lancs Bolton Nov OM43308 Plaxton Premier Tellings Golden Miller Dec OM43911 Daimler utility dd bus Coventry December OM45115 MCW Metrobus MkI Gt Manchester. Dece OM44103 Optare Solo Reading Buses December VANGUARDS 1:43 DIECAST TAXIS FOR HIRE VA05403 Morris Oxford VI Hong Kong Taxi July VA04408 Austin Cambridge Taxi Portugal October VA06406 Vauxhall Cresta Legion Taxi Australia Nov ANNIVERSARY MODELS FROM THE LAST 50 YEARS VA05308 Triumph Dolomite Sprint 30th Anniv Black July VA06509 Rover P6 200 40th Anniv willow green CANCELLED VA04508 Austin Allegro Ser 1 30th Anniversary damask red September VA02615 Hillman Imp 40th Anniv Polar white Oct VA02512 Mini Cooper S 40th Anniv Tartan red Nov VA05005 MGA open 80th Anniv alamo beige Dec SALOONS VA08700 Vauxhall HB Viva SL Pinewood green July VA08800 Daimler Sovereign XJ6 dark blue August VA08900 Morris 1800 S antelope September VA06306 Morris Marina 1300 sand glow October VA05208 Ford Granada Mk1 purple velvet November VA08204 Triumph 2.5 PI MkII saloon December COMMERCIALS VA00317 Austin A40 Birds Eye July VA07603 Land Rover Telecom October HIDDEN TREASURES VA08901 Austin 1800 limeflower green September VA03808 Vauxhall Victor black + rust November SPORTS VA05103 Austin- Healey 3000 MkII black+white roof Aug VA05903 Jaguar XK120 Battleship grey September HEROES OF AUSTRALIAN MOTOR SPORT VA06405 Vauxhall Cresta Phillip Island 60, Coad July VA07302 Ford Cortina Mk I GT Armstrong 500 1964, Bob Jane August VA08401 Jaguar Mk II ATCC 1963, Bob Jane Sept POLICE VA05508 Ford Consul 3000 GT Antwerp police July VA04605 Ford Zephyr P6 MkIII Polis Sweden July VA07901 Porsche 356 Cabrio Autobahn Polizei Sept VA08902 Austin 1800 Diplomatic Protection Group Metropolitan police October VA05803 Morris Minor Panda car Met November VA06510 Rover 3500 V8 Traffic car Met December BOY RACER VA07201 Ford Popular metallic purple August VA08701 Vauxhall Viva HB metallic orange October VA02614 Hillman Imp bright green December LLEDO Trackside series DG174003 BMC Noddy van Island Link July DG175000 Scammell Handyman flat Blue Circle July DG176003 Leyland 4 axle flat Robsons August DG146005 Guy Pantechnicon Masons August DG150006 Foden S21 tanker National Benzole Sept DG174004 BMC Noddy van Wilkinsons September DG176005 Leyland 4 axle Briton Ferry Steel October DG175001 Scammell Handyman low load Pickfords Oct DG150007 Foden S21 artic W H Malcolm November DG148007 Scammell Scarab van BRS November DG146006 Guy Pantechnicon Bishops Move 150th Anniversary December DG175003 Scammell Handyman tanker Shell Dec EDDIE STOBART LIMITED ES1002 AEC flat artic & tinplate depot building July DG150005 Foden S21 flat artic August DG176004 Leyland 4 axle flat with load September DG175002 Scammell Handyman flat artic October DG176006 Leyland 4 axle dropside November Days Gone COMIC CAPERS DG073019 VW Combi Eagle comic August DG071024 Morris LD150 Wham comic September DG063028 Bedford 30cwt van Whizzer & Chips Oct DG58022 Morris Z van Lion comic November BN1002 Beano 65th anniversary 2 Piece set July DRINK DG100010 Fordson 7V lorry Perrier Jouet July DG085024 Renault van Plymouth Gin July DG056002 Ford A van Beefeater Gin August DG006181 Ford T Gaymers Olde English September DG173004 Bedford CA van Babycham October DG031012 Brewers dray Westons Cider November FOOD DG075011 Bristol LD6G Lodekka bus Princes August DG044038 Scammell 3 axle Rice Krispies August DG059032 Bedford 30cwt lorry Corn Flakes Sept DG043038 Delivery van Kelloggs October DG049025 AEC double deck bus Shredded Wheat Oct DG067012 Artic truck Glenryck pilchards November DG30023 Chevy van HP salad dressing November DG173005 Bedford CA van SCHWARTZ December DG109005 Dick Kerr open top tram Knorr December KG2004 Kelloggs 4 piece special edition set Sept HOME & LIFESTYLE DG021057 Light van Ideal Home August DG028037 Tilt truck Brylcreem September DG066028 Dennis van Ewbank October COUNTRY LIFE DG043039 Delivery van Wilson July DG016043 Dennis Van Penfold September DG061012 Delivery van Pinnacle November DG051019 Box van Topflite December EMERGENCY DG166001 Land Rover Territorial Army ambulance Aug DG173003 Bedford CA van Fire assisitance October DG060017 Dennis F8 Fire 'Singer' Clydebank Dec STEAM VEHICLES DG088012 S6 Sentinel 2 axle with tilt GM Peach July DG125006 Burrell Showmans David Ragsdale Sept DG091011 Foden Steam wagon Ashworth November Aviation Archive All 1:72 scale unless otherwise noted. 100 YEARS OF FLIGHT AA32912 Boeing 707-321 Dan-Air, 1971 July 1:144 AA30508 Vickers V756D Viscount, VH-TVH, George Bass Trans Australian Airways July 1:144 AA34501 Wright Flyer Orville & Wilbur Wright,Kittyhawk, NC, 1903 August 1:32 AA31506 Bristol 175 Britannia 102, G-ANBA BOAC, Heathrow 58 September 1:144 AA30007 Douglas DC-3 South African AirwaysHistoric Flght November 1:144 MILITARY AIR POWER 1945-1970 AA32306 EE Lightning F3 23 Sqn, RAF 1965 July AA34103 Blackburn Buccaneer S Mk2 801 Sqn, RN, HMS Victorious, 1965 August AA30006 Douglas C-47 USAF 20th TFW Base Flight, Wethersfield, Essex, 1960 Sept AA32606 Avro Lancaster Mk10P, FM104 RCAF, 107 Rescue Unit November AA99134 Avro Vulcan B2 & Handley-Page Victor B2 V-Bomber set, 1963 December 1:144 WORLD WAR II EUROPE & AFRICA AA34003 Consolidated B-24D Strawberry bitch 376th BG, Benghazi Libya, Late 1943 July AA33702 Heinkel He 111 H-6 Gefechtsverbund Kuhlmey Immola, Finland, 1944 July AA32206 North American P-51D Mustang IV KM272 Dooleybird, 19 Sqn, RAF, 1945 July AA34301 Focke-Wulf Fw 190A-4 White 8 Lt W Nowotny, Saffelkapitan 1/JG54 August AA33904 Spitfire MkI, N31383/ KL- B Kiwi P/O Alan Deere, 54 Sqn RAF September 1:32 AA33804 Republic P-47D Thunderbolt 11 Capt Herschel H Green, 317th FS 325th FG Oct AA32807 DH Mosquito PRXVI USAAF 653rd BS/ 25th BG 325 Photo Wing, Watton, 1944 Oct AA99133 Avro Lancaster B VI ND673, 635 Sqn & DH Mosquito B Mk IX (Oboe) LR507/GB-F 109 Sqn Pathfinder Force (8 Gp) October AA34302 Focke-Wulf Fw 190A-4 black double chevron Hpt Fritz Losigkeit, 1/JG1 November AA33303 Boeing B-17 Fortress IIA FL459, 220 Sqn RAF Coastal Command, Ballykelly, 42 Nov AA34402 NA P-51D?10 Mustang Old Crow Capt Bud Anderson 362nd FS 357th FG Dec 1:32 AA33703 Heinkel He 111P-2 Kg 55 Dreux, Chartres, 1940 (night sorties) December WORLD WAR II WAR IN THE PACIFIC AA33006 Vought Corsair IV, KD345 1850 Sqn, RN, HMS Vengeance 1945 August AA31703 Short Sunderland III JM673/P Black Peter 230 Sqn, Koggala, Ceylon 1944 Aug 1:144 AA34004 Consolidated B-24D Liberator Sky Witch Capt Ryan, 400th BS, 90th BG, BIAK Sept AA34401 NA P-51D Mustang Stinger VII Maj R W Moore, 45th FS 15th FG, Iwo Jima Oct 1:32 AA33805 Republic P-47D Thunderbolt Bonnie Maj W D Dunham, 460th FS 348th FG, Leyte Dec MILITARY AIR POWER THUNDER IN THE SKIES AA33605 Panavia Tornado IDS JBG-32, Lechfeld, Tiger Meet 2001 August AA33407 Westland Sea King Mk 50 HS 817 Sqn, U Royal Australian Navy, 1962 August AA34201 Boeing-Vertol CH-47C Chinook 180th AC, US Army September AA33208 McDonnell QF-4B Phantom drone USN Missile Center California September AA34104 Hawker Siddeley Buccaneer S.Mk 2B XX885/L 12 Sqn, RAF, Gulf War, 1991 Oct AA34202 Boeing-Vertol Chinook HC1 18 Sqn RAF, Falklands 1982 November AA33408 Sikorsky HSS-2 Sea King HS-3 Sqn, USN, 1962 DecemberCLUB NEWS
Collated by Rod WardNAMAC: Ben van Roode has updated us on the collector's scene in The Netherlands, following my NAMAC notes in our Club News. he says, 'Alive and kicking is a short description of the situation here. Our national club, NAMAC, celebrates 40 years in existence in 2005. It has about 5500 members with regional chapters all over the country, that organise club nights where members can talk about their favourite hobby. Namac also organises a swapmeet six times a year that attracts around 5000 visitors each time, and has 1000 metres of tables. And it is growing, hard to comprehend, when I read sombre stories about the scene in other countries. I also notice that there are quite a lot of young people visiting these events. Not just old men in long coats carrying plastic bags. NAMAC has an interactive website and publishes Auto in Miniatuur, a 56 page magazine with a circulation of about 10,000 copies, sold at news stands in Holland and the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium. There are shops galore in Holland, which is a small country. My last count was about 40 shops that operate at least three days a week. The model car collecting hobby is flourishing here'. Certainly other countries have looked enviously at the apparent ability of Nederlanders to stay impervious to economic problems seen elsewhere. But they are not entirely fireproof, it seems. In spite of Ben's assurances, I have recently found that leading dealers in Holland are finally suffering the same problems that the rest of us have had for some years. To quote one comment, 'Holland is suffering from a deep recession, the first I have known since I have been in the model car business. and three of my best customers died last month, just to make it worse'. Sound familiar?
Wessex Model and Toy Collectors: Barry Lloyd is Editor of the WMTC newsletter, Smalltalk, where he recounted an unfortunate experience after joining another club. This was the Riley Motor Club, at whose stand at a classic car show he announced himself as a new club member. 'The reaction was, to say the least, lukewarm, and nobody seemed particularly interested in making me welcome', Barry says, 'I just hope that when we get new members coming along to our club, they get a warmer and friendlier welcome. I know it's all too easy to chat away to friends at club nights, but let's not forget to say hello to the new faces that may appear. They may feel a bit out of it to start with, and a friendly word does a lot to help'. Let all members of all clubs take note of this. If someone is brave enough to come along on their own to a club night as a new member, the least you can do is introduce yourself, make them welcome and explain what goes on. I also joined a (non-model car) club in the past year, and my own experience of walking in 'cold' the first time has made me vow to make some effort, whenever someone else joins. It can be an unnerving experience, and if a new member is not made welcome they may never come again. On the other hand, if someone is helped to fit in and is brought up to speed quickly, they may prove to be a leading light in the club's future, and may even volunteer for one of those unfilled committee posts that existing members are always somehow too busy to consider. The WMTC is now primed to offer a warm welcome to all new members. Just contact Douglas Male on 01380 840356. After all, member David Swales has managed to visit a clubnight from his Lancashire home, and Michael Tate almost made it from the USA.
CAMP 1:43 handbuilt from France: Peugeot 205 Verve estate, made by Pininfarina. 200 of this model have been made by Jean-Yves Puillet of Prestige (Mini Racing) exclusively for members of the club for Peugeot model collectors. The next special club model will be a Peugeot 12cv Six, made by Francois Debast of Double File, for release in Autumn 2003. for more information about CAMP, write to Alain Bureau at CAMP, BP 01, 75116 Paris Cedex 16, France.
Natal Diecast Model Club: I have to be careful what I say about the NDMC's newsletter, as they have proved to be a little hyper-sensitive about my comments in the past. It seems however, that giving their club a little publicity in these pages has resulted in them being contacted by various other clubs around the world to exchange newsletters, so my coverage can't be all bad! Chairman Geoff Sear complains that magazines from the UK end up costing almost double the cover price in South Africa, in spite of the recently rising value of the Rand. He is referring to 'news-stand' prices, by the way, not to direct subscriptions. I'll add a comment here, though Geoff was not referring to MAR.
Magazines for 'trade sales' used to be sent by surface mail, arriving months late, but at a relatively low price. Now, international magazine readers demand that publications arrive at the same time as in the country of origin, costing more expensive airmail, though retail stockists can still make a profit by selling at the equivalent price to a direct subscription. For example, the cost of a sub to MAR includes the additional cost per copy sent to Europe or the 'Rest of the World' to use the Post Office terminology. Trade buyers get a quantity discount, which enables them to make a profit, plus a bit more, as a bulk parcel costs less per copy than sending them out one at a time. At least, that was the case, and it seems logical. Now, however, it can cost almost the same per copy to send a pack of magazines to a stockist in the 'rest of the World' as it would to send them all singly. Thus stockists may only only make their 'trade' mark-up on the magazines; the additional money paid out for shipping returns no profit. If they put a profit margin on to that cost as well, the magazine may well end up costing more over the counter than a reader would pay by direct subscription. But of course, the reader doesn't have to lay out the money in advance for a year's subscription, and he may prefer the choice of buying a magazine when he sees it. If you'd like to discuss economics with Geoff, or to join the NDMC, phone him at 031 205 0100.
Ferrari Model Club: Dominique Lahuec read with great consternation the Club news item on page 8758. He asks, 'Do you know who Thomas Niewalda is? I wish to inform you that I am the owner and still the President of the Ferrari Model club, founded in 1974, proved by my contract with the founder Mr Heiderstädt, who sold me the club at the end of 1994. The web address of the original Ferrari Model Club is www.ferrari-model-club.de. My address for prospective members is FMC, Wotanstrasse 40/3, D-806039 München, Germany.'
Coventry Diecast Model Club: The saddest news from the CDMC is that Erik Fredriksen passed away in March. I extend the sympathy of MAR readers and our condolences to his wife and children. Erik was a much-loved character, a stalwart of the Coventry Club, and of collecting in general. He had been Chairman of the CDMC, and its Toy Fair organiser. I remember him well from many events over the past two decades. Still active, and only in his early 70s, his energy put many younger folk to shame. Erik was always happy when Clubs communicated with each other, and he would be pleased to see Will Roe's recent comments about the CDMC's exchange of newsletters with the Western Australia Model Collector's Club, now going on for 21 years! Maybe Eric Hughes of the WAMCC would be interested in sending a copy of Showcase, their club publication, for coverage on this page? In the meantime, anyone interested in joining the CDMC should telephone 024 7630 7700.
South Hants Model Auto Club: Stu and Sue Leake's SHMAC magazine is featuring old photos of Club members, as a way of jogging down Memory Lane. Most of them seem to feature Chris Derbyshire, presumably on the grounds of his great beauty, only excelled by that of Chairman Rod Fox in the two examples in the latest issue. Why isn't there one of Stu and Sue in an earlier life? Are they misusing their position as controllers of published material to censor the picture gallery? All we've seen pictures of so far are the two great loves in Sue's life, her dogs and tractors. The Editors say 'By way of a change we have a number of items on real cars' (in the latest issue). Is that a change? This is the club whose members are car enthusiasts who happen to collect models, isn't it? If that sounds like you as well, you can get membership information on the SHMAC from Secretary Dave Painter on 01264 366408.
Maidenhead Static Model Club: It's 'All change' at the MSMC as five stalwarts leave the Committee, to be replaced by some new blood. The new team looks to be just as talented and hard working as their predecessors, so the Club should continue into a successful future. There is certainly plenty of support from the members, almost half of whom turned out for the Annual General Meeting. That is a record of which many other organisations would be envious. In the latest Wheel Bearings, the MSMC newsletter edited by Bill Alexander, John Harrison tells the tale of buying a new car, then trying to find a model of it. The problem was that at the Leeds car auctions John bought a Mazda Demio, of which there turned out to only a 1:36 scale caricature-type toy of a Demio which John found on the internet in Hong Kong. The maker is just © TTL 1999. If anyone has more information on TTL, or on a proper scale model of a Demio, John would like to know. For MSMC membership information, contact Alan Simpson on 01484 813903.
BOOK REVIEWS
By Hans-Georg SchmittBERNA Nutzfahrzeuge 1902 1979 by Kurt Sahli, German text, 279 pages, 370 photos, 37 drawings. 225 x 275 mm. Hardbound with dust jacket. ISBN 3-7272-9628-3. Available from book stores or direct from Verlag Stampfli AG, Hallerstrasse 7, CH-3001 Bern, Switzerland. In 1904 the Swiss Automobile Factory Berna was founded, starting with cars, fitted with single and two cylinder engines. In 1906 the first trucks with 40 hp four cylinder engines left the Olten factory. The company was re-named Motorenwerke Berna, then it was taken over in 1908 by a British company who founded Berna Commercial Motors Ltd to produce trucks for export to England. In 1912 the company was taken over again, this time by a Swiss group, and re-named yet again Motorwagenfabrik Berna AG, Olten. Production grew during the wrtime period of 1914 to 1918 mostly on military trucks and tractors. Then in 1929 a majority shareholding was taken in the company by the competing commersial vehicle manufacturer Adolph Saurer Arbon. From 1938 to 1945, once again many military vehicles were manufactured in the wartime period. In 1976 the last truck was assembled at Olten, and the last bus was completed in 1979. Production thereafter transferred to the Saurer factory, which in turn was later taken over by Daimler-Benz AG. In this useful book the author tells the history of Berna, their great technical developments and the many different types of commercial vehicles which left the Olten factory down the years.
FBW Franz Brozincevic Wetzikon Nutzfahrzeuge 1908-1985 by Kurt Sahli, German text, 296 pages, 324 photographs, 38 technical drawings. Hardbound with dust jacket. 225 x 275 mm. ISBN 3-7272-9626-7. Available from book stores or direct from Verlag Stampfli AG, Hallerstrasse 7, CH-3001 Bern, Switzerland. An important role was played in Switzerland by someone with the initials FBW, Franz Bronzincevic Wetzikon, who in 1908 founded a transport company and a repair shop. In 1910 he designed his first truck, which worked better than those he had bought from other manufacturers, so he decided to go into production. The first truck with cardan drive instead of chain drive came out in 1911. There were many much-admired technical pioneering feats from FBW, but in the 1970s a chillier wind meant that the FBW company was sold to Oerlikon-Buhrle in which Daimler-Benz then took 49% of the shares in 1980. The last FBW vehicle was delivered in 1985. Both of these books give an insight into the inventiveness and efficiency in two companies of the Swiss commercial vehicle industry. They built innovative and often unusual vehicles for the Swiss market, suitable for use on mountain roads.
OPEL KADETT 1962-1991 A Documentation by Martin-Paul Roland, German text. 96 pages, 153 pictures. 190 x 210 mm. Hardbound. ISBN 3-613-87237. Published by Schrader Motor Chronik, Schrader Verlag, Stuttgart, member of Paul Pietsch Verlage GmbH. & Co. Available from Motorbuch Verlag, Postfach 103 743 D-70032 Stuttgart, Germany. Whoever drives an Opel, drives reliably. This advertising slogan from the early post-war years was simply expressed, but correct, though VW Beetle buyers were unimpressed. So Opel decided, to take on the best-seller from the North with a new car, the same size as a Beetle, but with front engine, rear wheel drive and, by Beetle standards, a huge boot. A suitable name was quickly chosen, as the popular prewar Kadett's production line had been removed from Rüsselsheim by the Russians for war reparations. The name was re-introduced in 1962 and was in production up to 1991, when the product line was re-named the Opel (and Vauxhall) Astra. The Kadett was planned to be a Beetle -beater, but it wasn't, and once the Golf hit the market, the cars from Bochum always played second fiddle. Over the years, the body was redesigned five times, each new version given a type letter from A to E. The C-type shared some of its body parts with the Vauxhall Chevette, and the E-type shared bodies almost completely between the GM European ranges. Only the emblems were different, and the steering wheel was fixed on the other side. This book includes sales literature from three decades, and describes standard models and rare variations, plus special vehicles for Police, Fire and Forestry purposes.
Die CLAAS Mahdrescher Story Ein Familienunternehmen schreibt Landtechnikgeschichte by Manfred Baedeker and Ralf Lenge, German text. 143 pages, 235 illustrations. Hardbound, 230 x 300 mm. ISBN 3-7843-3053-3. Published by and available from Landwirtschaftsverlag GmbH, Hulsebrockstrasse 2, D48165 Münster, Germany. No other company is responsible for a bigger share of the history of the combine harvester than Claas. The Claas combine harvester story represents the triumphant advance of reaping and threshing in one operation in Europe. Fot the first time in one place, this book gives the complete history of the combine harvester and of this Westphalian family business. Their archives were opened freely, and as well as data and detailed information a great number of photographs and other illustrations were put at the author's disposal. The first mechanical harvesters were developed in North America in the 1830s. They were huge machines, drawn by 40 or more horses. These giants were too big for the comparatively small farm fields in Europe, so for that market special machines must be developed. Claas started the development process in 1930, and the first efficient combine harvester bearing their name came on the market in 1937. Today this healthy family business is prospering. There is a joint venture with Caterpillar in North America and also a plant in Hungary. When the corn and maize are ripe on many European fields the big green and white combine harvesters with the red lettering can be seen. As a matter of interest, miniature Claas combine harvesters include excellent ready built models by Wiking and Siku, and Kibri offers 1:87 scale plastic kits.
Die Hela-Chronik Hermann Lanz Aulendorf by Kurt Hafner, Franz Schoch, German text. 192 pages, 240 illustrations. Hardbound 230 x 305 mm. ISBN 3-7843-3097-5. Published by and available from Landwirtschaftsverlag GmbH, Hulsebrockstrasse 2; D48165 Münster, Germany. The Lanz Bulldog is well known in the world of tractors, but few people know that there was also a second company under the Lanz name. Hermann Lanz founded his mechanical workshop in 1888 in the Upper Swabian village of Aulendorf. In 1914 his son Hermann Lanz Junior joined the business and enlarged the company, going into the field of manufacturing agricultural implements. In 1931 he presented his first tractor, the Samson. During the Second World War, in 1940, the 1000th tractor was delivered to its owner. During that period the tractors were powered by producer gas (wood-gas powered). After the war, the model range was substantially increased and output grew. In 1951 Heinrich Lanz AG wanted their products to have a distinctively different identity, soa new brand and logo had to be created, and the Hela Diesel was born. Agricultural tractors of 14 to 40 hp power output were made under this name, together with smaller size and vine-yard tractors. In the second half of the 1970s Lanz got into financial difficulties. They looked for a stronger business partner, which they found in IBH-Holding AG. Only small wheel-loaders and grave yard excavators were then produced, and tractor production was cancelled. The IBH group collapsed in 1983, due to criminal wheeling and dealing. Lanz was drawn into this maelstrom and it disappeared into the dust of history. This book mainly covers in detail the history of the Hermann Lanz company, but there is also an interesting chapter on the German tractor industry and also one on Gemman industrial culture in general. Enthusiasts for old tractors will be pleased to see the interesting photographs from a difficult period in the history tractor development and manufacturing.
BOOK REVIEWS: We invite publishers or distributors to submit publications for review. Readers may also wish to review books not already covered.
BUS STOP
EXCLUSIVE FIRST EDITIONS
By Frank JoyceThe task of re-establishing Gilbow will shortly be completed as the last part of the jigsaw is put into place, with the removal and installation of Contour Equipment into the Gilbow office and warehouse site in Enfield. Contour Equipment is the specialist pad printing company that decorates many of our Exclusive First Editions models and is an important part of our business. To prepare the site for Contour we have had to install a compressed air system, compressor and a new power system to service the printing machines and tool room, all of which has absorbed much more time than expected. With Contour Equipment installed and operational on site at Enfield it will complete our consolidation of Gilbow (Holdings) Ltd. and Exclusive First Editions and allow us more time to concentrate on running the business more effectively and provide an even better service to our customers and collectors. I have received a number of comments and concerns regarding gimmicks and toy-like features that are being added to some of the model buses that have appeared on the market recently from Hong Kong companies.
The concerns are that we might consider incorporating these types of gimmicks into Exclusive First Editions bus models. As new models are designed I must keep aware of market trends, while keeping focused to our objective of producing models that capture the spirit of the vehicle while achieving fine body detail. The inclusion of opening windows, doors and engine covers in almost all instances detracts from the fine detailing of the model and in the long term is not the way to go as it turns models into toys. However, there are some features like rear view mirrors that can improve some models and where appropriate these will be included on suitable models.
I have been at this same point before at Matchbox Toys when moving gimmicks were added to the 1-75 range. The long term effect was very destructive on the brand as it was not sustainable at the price and gradually as prices increased the market was eroded. Similarly the argument is made to me that these extra complicated models can sell at a higher price and collector will be happy to pay more. I think not. History tells us that it is not the case and we will not be following this trend. I have been considering other themes, and on trawling through the photos and suggestions sent to us over the years we have found a number of buses used by the police forces across the country. Having identified about six good subjects to be modelled, it is our intention to release these over 12 to 18 months. Any comments would be welcomed.
We have arranged to make two Leyland TD1 bus models for the Australian market, which will be sold in Australia by Trux (ie Trax). They are both in the livery of the Metropolitan bus company, routes 88 Enfield and Sydney and 120 Bondi Beach North and Railway.
Models now released
28901GM std Atlantean Maidstone & District 28805 Leyland Titan Reading Buses 25105 Bristol RELL Southern Vectis 10132 AEC RT Bus London Transport 17213 Leyland National MkI West Midlands 23205 AEC RF MkII Bus Greenline 27610 Wrights Volvo Renown Ulsterbus 20904 Leyland Windover Southdown 15633 MR Routemaster MR6 Gold Jubilee 25512 Alexander Y type Western buses 12804 Atkinson Flatbed BRS 29002 GM Std Fleetline Lancashire United 28806 Leyland Titan East London Buses 13702 Atkinson Tanker Texaco 12115 Harrington Cavalier S. Wales NBC 23402 Bedford TK Flatbed Fremlins Beer 20630 Plaxton Pointer Dart Capital City Bus 23315 AEC RF MKI Bus London Transport 80401,80501,80601 & 80701 Central Line k Forthcoming model releases 14011 Bristol FLF Lodekka Scottish MT 28807 Leyland Titan Cambridgeshire Police 20429 Bristol VRIII Solent Blueline 28902 GM Standard Atlantean East Kent 27701 AEC STL Bus London Transport 17214 Leyland National MkI Northumbria 24321 BET AEC Reliance Jones Aberbeeg 20129 Bedford OB Leathers Coaches 27210 Leyland TD1 open rear Western Nat. 26404 Daimler Utility East Yorkshire 28004 Daimler DMS 1 door Derby City 17303 Leyland National MkI Southend Trans 29801 Wright Dennis Arrow London+Country London Transport Gift Sets The Transport for London Golden Jubilee Gift Sets are available from the LT Museum.FRANCE
VOLKSWAGEN DECALSThe Beetle Shop in Paris has released two new waterslide decal sheets for air-cooled VWs, two sheets that will suit 1:43, 1:24, 1:18 and even bigger scales. Sheet D4, includes famous sponsors such as Bardhal, Earl's, Edelbrock, Good Year, Gumout, Gulf, Holley, Koni, NHRA, Las Vegas Speedway, Mobilgas and SCAT. Sheet D5 includes Champion, Firestone, Mr Horsepower (left and right sides), NOS (two different designs), Phillips 66, Sinclair Dino Gasoline, Texaco, Summit and the Mobil Pegasus. The sheets cost 7 ?uros each plus p&p from The Beetle shop in Paris, 11 rue Collette, 15017 Paris, France. Tel. +33 140 259700, Fax +33 140 259720. email beetle@beetle-shop.fr
WORLD NEWS
MARSH MODELS UPDATE
By John SimonsAt Marsh Models we have three new 1:43 scale models to announce, although MM103, the 59 AC Ace LM should also be ready as soon as we get the photoetched parts.
MM83 1971 Autocoast Ti22 Delta Tires After Peter Bryant lost control of the project, the car was run privately for David Hobbs who put up some strong performances with little result. Available as a kit or handbuilt, also as LE22, 50 builts only, signed by David Hobbs
MM85 65 CanAm Ford X-1 Ford asked Bruce McLaren to turn the 1965 Le Mans car into an open Canam car but even Bruce's legendary engineering skill and Chris Amon's driving ability could not make such an overweight and under-powered car competitive. This is the first time this car has been modelled in 1:43 scale. This model is available as a kit or handbuilt.
MM108 68 McLaren M6A URSCC Sunoco Roger Penske purchased McLaren's 1967 CanAm winning M6A for Mark Donohue for the 1968 URSCC and CanAm series. Although Donohue would win only one Canam race in a much modified version, he easily won the URSCC series in the car as modelled here. Also available as a kit or handbuilt.
Work in Progress We now have the patterns for MM106 Targa Cobra 289 and MK08 Sebring Ford Mk II Roadster. We are expecting the first test casings for the Ford C100 and once we have these we can start on the other Le Mans version and the two Jagermeister cars.
MORE FROM KYOSHO
By Heather RoseKyosho are making a 1:18 scale diecast model of the Paul Newman team's Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Competizione from Daytona 1977, reference 0725. Another release is a 1:18 scale Lancia Delta Integrale 6, with lots of detail, including a hood (bonnet), trunk (boot) and four doors that all open. This model is reference 0715, finished in white. For larger scale collectors, there is also a 1:12 scale street version of the Aston Martin Vanquish, reference 0015.
The Lamborghini Jota SVR with spoiler is now available in both 1:18 scale (0215/6) and 1:43 scale (1048/9), in each scale finished in a choice of black or red.
In the Kyosho Auto Scale Collection there is now a Ford Focus WRC 2002 rally car replica in this range of detailed injection-moulded models, reference 0038. It comes mounted on a non-radio control chassis, with a display case. The model is supplied with racing wheels and tyres, and will fit on to a radio control-ready Mini-Z chassis.
DIE CAST PROMOTIONS
By Ben van RoodeDie Cast Promotions are the folk behind the Highway 61 range. Their large scale Studebaker and Hudson models, previously noted in Model Auto Review, are superb. I have also found a 1:50 Chevy Silverado with an accompanying trailer, marketed under the DCP name. (There are lots of Silverado models around, by the way. In Holland I bought a Hongwell Cararama Silverado and a Chevy Tahoe, SUV.) Die Cast Promotions is a relatively new company that seems to be part of the Ertl family. It says in the brochure DCP by F F Ertl III, Inc, so it seems to be part of the 'Fred Ertl' wing of the family Last year they released a 1:16 scale 1941 GMC or Chevrolet truck, designed to carry a car or tractor model. Perhaps the scale of 1:16 was chosen to suit the many collectors of agricultural equipment in this scale. For 2003 they promise to add a 1937 Graham-Bradley general purpose tractor. The Chevy and GMC trucks will appear in a 1946 model year version with a different grille, as grain truck or flatbed. In the Highway 61 range this vehicle will also appear as a 1941 Chevy and a GMC fire truck. 1:64 scale trucks are popular in the States and the following are promised: International day cab and Heil tanker for Gulf or Citgo. The flatbed is loaded with balers or rotary cutters. One tractor is a day cab. The other has a sleeper fitted. There are also four Internationals with utility trailers (closed) in the liveries of Gehl, Mustang (not the car, but western clothes), Studebaker and Mr Gasket. Brookfield Guild, now part of the Action group, have made a 1:25 scale Chevrolet van, finished in liveries of stock car drivers. Now DCP intends make 1:25 GMC and Chevy versions of a late model van, welcome news. Highway 61's first release was a Studebaker Commander 1951. More expensive than Muscle Machines from Ertl, for instance, they are, however, super-detailed. Now available is the 1953 Hudson Hornet, with or without a sun visor in those lovely authentic colour schemes. They also give us a 1952 model year Hornet with different hoods. Highway 61 also makes a 1967 Plymouth GTX, a classic muscle car. New for 2003: 1964 Dodge 330, 1963 Pontiac Le Mans, 1968 Dodge Dart GTS, 1967 Oldsmobile 442 in hard top and soft top versions and 2003 Saturn Sedan. The Le Mans, the Dodge 330 and Hudson will also be in racing versions. Always wanted a 1966 Hurst Hairy Olds and 1966 Plymouth Barracuda Hemi under glass? Look no further. Various 1929 Ford Hot Rods and 1950 Studebaker customs complete the lineup.
MATTEL Hot Wheels
Metal Collection Silver Range European Series 1:18 diecast in China: 57304 Lamborghini Murciélago. The company was founded in 1963 by the late Ferrucio Lamborghini to make agricultural vehicles and tractors. The first sports car was developed, according to established legend, when Ferrucio was dissatisfied with his new Ferrari, and went away to build a better car himself. In 1987 the car firm was taken over by Chrysler, who sold it in 1993 to MegaTech, (linked with Kia), and in 1998 it was finally taken over by Audi. It looks as if Lamborghini may have found a settled home at last. At Frankfurt Auto Show in 2001 the successor to the Diablo, the Murciélago was launched, named after a rare Spanish fighting bull breed, a high performance mid engined sports car with permanent four wheel drive. It has a 6.2 litre 48 valve 580hp V12 engine and manual six speed gear box, capable of more than 330 km/h. The body is on a steel lattice tube frame, reinforced with carbon fibre panels. The metallic blue model captures the wedge shape of the original car well, the front boot lid, doors and bonnet all open, the steering wheel steers the front wheels and the rear spoiler can be erected. The boot offers more space than a Ferrari Modena, but there is no spare wheel. The doors open upwards, hinged just like the real car. The interior, in black and yellow, includes the handbrake lever, in the correct position to the left of the (left hand) driver's seat, but it has no seat belts fitted. (PNotes, Hans-Georg Schmitt).
Danbury 1:43 Series
By John QuilterDanbury Mint are about to introduce a ten car set in their Ford Centennial Collection series. It comes in a subscription arrangement with one car per month issued, including an attractive wood and glass shelf with Ford logo. The cars are made by Paul's Model Art (aka Minichamps) so they promise to be quite good. A colleague who has already received the 1964 Mustang convertible says it is excellent, and up to the usual Paul's Model Art standards. Other cars in the series include a 1914 Model T touring car (in black of course), a 1928 Model A coupe (black and tan), a 1940 Ford wood station wagon (green), a 1941 Lincoln Continental Convertible (grey), a 1949 Ford convertible (brown), a 1950 Mercury coupe (black), a 1955 Thunderbird (turquoise), a 1956 Lincoln Continental (white), and an Edsel Bermuda station wagon (finished in pink and white with 'wood' trim). For some reason Danbury and Ford have picked a number of cars that have already been done fairly recently, the Mustang and 1956 Lincoln in a Franklin Mint series, the Mercury by Eagles Race and Road Champs, the Model T by Universal Hobbies-Eagles Race and the Thunderbird by Matchbox-Dinky. The 1941 Continental splits the difference between the Matchbox 1938 Continental and the Collectors Classics 1948 version. The Edsel is a new and unique model, as is the Model A coupe. Don't those who choose models to do read MAR, or have a copy of Jerry Rettig's excellent definitive guide of all American 1:43 scale cars produced? Well, still this is a series worth getting, if just for the Edsel, the Model A, the 1940 Woodie, and the attractive display shelf. The subscription price in the USA is $29.95 per model plus $3.95 shipping. Contact Danbury Mint, 47 Richards Avenue, Norwalk, Connecticut, 06857, USA. Telephone 1-888-854-7108, Eastern Time
CRESCENT MODELS F1
The first two models are available in the new Crescent Models range of 1:43 scale Formula One cars, the BMW Williams FW22 and FW23 They say, 'Colin Fraser has done a fantastic job on these cars. The models are available in kit or built format. Kits are available now, built models are being prepared by Colin to order, and will follow shortly.
HONGWELL FORD CORSAIR
By Ben van RoodeThe Ford Corsair: Dinky once made a model of this V4 engined English car. Its styling was heavily influenced by the then-current Ford Thunderbird. Now Hongwell brings us a set which includes the Corsair towing a caravan. the price in Holland is 9.50 Euros. It looks very good to me. The caravan could be a copy from the caravan Robeddie have in their range, the SMV caravan from Sweden. It is a rather unexpected choice, to say the least. It is available from model car shops in Holland. I have not seen it in discount stores. Editor's Note: I was shown a picture of the pre-production prototype of this 1:43 diecast model in 2002, when I criticised its wheels (which I was told would be better on production versions) and the fact that a two-door saloon had been chosen, when a four door would have offered more choices of other variants, such as Police cars. Nice to see such an unusual choice from Hongwell. Let's hope it sells well enough to encourage them to make more similar subjects. I am told that this Hongwell model was originally made as the result of a commission from an outside company.
STEPPENWOLF MODEL
By Ben van RoodeThose of you still young at heart remember this name from the music of the Sixties. But this another wolf. It is the 2000 Paris Salon Audi concept car. Roland Wenzel and Rainer Köhne from Germany have decided that there is a market for handbuilt models of Audi prototypes. So, like other enthusiasts, they started their own brand. They make the Avant RS2, TT coupe proto, TT roadster proto, Quattro concept car, 5000 CS turbo quattro, Rosemeyer prototype and now the Steppenwolf from 2000. You can find them at www. inmocar.de.
Picasso IN CHINESE
By Ben van RoodePicasso was born in Spain, but lived in France for most of his life. You know your art history. So do Citroen. They have a history of making unconventional cars and their Picasso mpv is an example. There now is an 1:18 scale model in the Dongfeng-Citroen range, made in China. This model is of the car as manufactured under license from Citroen in China. So the prototype and the model are both Chinese Picassos.
YAT MING EXPANDS
By Ben van RoodeLast year Yat Ming offered improved quality standards in an interesting product range, including a 1:24 1938 Ford fire engine. In the same scale we now get two Presidential limos, from 1938 and 2001. The 1938 car is an open Cadillac V16, with such detail as opening gun cases, telephone and folding seats. The current US Presidential limo will also be nice to have on your shelf. 1:18 scale sees a few interesting new items. The 1969 Corvair Monza looks good, but I do not know the Toyota Matrix (must be a Corolla to us in Europe). Then there is a 2003 Pontiac Vibe GTR, if you like the styling...
NEW MODELS FROM RIALTO
By Jan MiedemaI would like to inform all MAR readers that we have released three new models in 1:43 scale.
RM010 Opel Omega A six door limousine 1989. We have had this model in the plan for more than two years. Because the model is so massive (about 5.5 inches long) there were problems with casting the body. These problems have now been overcome. This special Omega was developed in 1988 by Armbruster-Stageway, a coachbuilder in the USA. The first cars were ordered by Israeli taxi companies where six door taxis are very popular. Those six door taxis are used on the Sherut service, a taxi service in which a few passengers (who do not have to know each other) drive together to various destinations, sharing the cost. Opel was quite pleased with the design of the car and decided to built this car in Rüsselsheim in a small series on the same production line as the four-door version. The Rialto Model is available in kit form or handbuilt in star silver or metallic blue. We are also going to make a taxi version in black, with the taxi sign and two aerials. The taxi will be a limited edition of 50 pieces. As usual with Rialto Models, the headlights are cast in clear transparent resin. We have tried to obtain information from Israel to make an Israeli taxi livery, but we have not succeeding in getting it. Maybe MAR readers know more, and can help with information?
RM014 Cadillac Catera 2001. This is the American version of the Opel Omega 2000. The Catera was produced in Germany and was sold only in the USA. The Catera is based on our formerly released Omega 2000 model, but we changed the pattern at the front and rear, because the Cadillac differs from the Opel in those areas. To build our Catera a Schuco Opel Omega 1995 diecast model is needed. We provide the new body, exterior mirrors, new hubcaps, fog lights for front bumper, photo-etched parts for the grille and screenwipers and of course the Cadillac decals. The rest of the parts are taken from the Schuco model. The Catera is available in kit form and handbuilt in (Opel-Vauxhall colours) cranberry (marseille red), sand (champagne), platinum (star silver) or sapphire (nocturno blue).
RM016 Bristol 406 GT Zagato SWB, A very special and rare car. Besides our Opel-GM models, we want to broaden the Zagato collection as well. Number three in this series is a Bristol Zagato. This car was shown in 1960 on the Zagato stand at the Earls Court Motor Show in London. It is not clear who initiated this car, Bristol boss Anthony Crook or Zagato themselves, or a co-operation. The car was received with enthusiasm because of its design and the smoke coloured transparent air duct on the bonnet under which the BMW-Bristol engine was clearly visible. The roofline again clearly shows the 'fingerprint' of Zagato, the double-bubble roof. It is the only Bristol bodied on a shortened chassis. The car has been in England for some time, owned by the chairman of the Bristol Owners Club. The car left the Zagato factory in silver metallic, but was later resprayed in red, which suits the car very well. The Rialto model is available handbuilt in this red colour or in kit form. We reproduced the air duct on the bonnet with a plastic vac-formed part (the same material as the windows) which is sprayed with smoke coloured transparent paint. The BMW-Bristol engine has been modelled in a stylised form, but it gives a good impression of the original car. For more information on Rialto Models, write to: Rialto Models, Parkdreef 173, 2724 ET Zoetermeer, Netherlands, email rialtomod@hetnet.nl We hope to have pictures of these new models in the next issue of Model Auto Review, and we will also be able to offer a model of the Bristol Zagato in a future MAR competition.
HONGWELL TRUCKS
By Maz WoolleyWhilst we are still waiting for the new Hongwell models for 2003 to appear, Hongwell commercial vehicles, based upon European prototypes, seem to be turning up in greater numbers now. I recently found a boxed set of four commercial vehicles for less than £5.00, illustrated here. These models are made from a mixture of diecast components (cab) and plastics (chassis, fitments etc). The models disassemble using a couple of small screws and are all based on a fairly detailed plastic chassis which is rather fragile and can be broken if you do not go very carefully when taking the models to bits. In my view the quality is superior to the Corgi toy truck ranges. The Hongwells include realistic wheels and underrun bars, and more detailing for example. However, they are still quite a way short of Herpa and others making more expensive models in roughly this scale. Having said that, I am sure that these models will be snapped up by many railway modellers with modern era layouts and by lorry enthusaists, since at this price no-one need worry about adding new liveries to suit their theme or even scratchbuilding new or different bodywork. This set includes: Mercedes Benz Actros three axle tanker in EuroGas livery: A good model with the red and silver livery looking very smart. Some neat detailing such as the tampo printing of badging on the cab, wipers and hand-holds picked out in black, as well as wheel centres in contrasting colours. Although the lights are not separate lenses they have been painted to give a realistic appearance. Mercedes Benz Actros three axle pipe truck In blue with the pipe carrier structure in dark grey. This model is the same in most details as the tanker. The model has no load though I am sure that it will turn up on its own with a load at some time. The yellow wheels are slightly over the top, since the yellow (as is often does) looks too obviously like plastic. Scania 144L 530 three axle, Model Spot livery The Scania has a supercab, detailed in the same way as the Mercedes. The printed badging is excellent and again the lights are effectively picked out in paint. The wheels are a good representation of metal with black painted areas. The rear of the vehicle is actually a flat bed with the canvas top slipped over it. Unfortunately the yellow plastic areas are again a little too bright and shiny to be entirely convincing. The Model Spot livery is in black and white and is curious. It features an E-type and Ferrari with the legend Woktart march and the printed letters ASFGH TYUH as if they were just chosen at random from the keyboard. Scania 144L 530 three axle in Vehicle Speed livery: The same cab appears again, in red this time. This looks excellent contrasting well with the grille and other black areas. This model features a shorter chassis than the previous model. The grey-silver box van back includes unobtrusive opening doors which adds to the play-posing value and this colour imitates well the silvery finish many vehicles are painted in. The livery is again curious featuring various vehicles and their speed, ending up with Thrust SSC. Does this mean that WLSR collectors will need this for their collection?
SUN STAR PLANS
By Ben van RoodeA 1932 Cadillac owned by one of the last Emperors of China is an intriguing choice of model subject from Sun Star. It reminds me of the Japanese Emperor's car which Minichamps made some years ago. Sun Star often makes interesting choices. This year's list includes 1963 Chevy Nova, Audi Quattro, 1961 Lotus Elan, and Cadillac limousine 2003. Sun Star seems to have a special interest in very long cars, such as the Lincoln and Mercedes 600. Besides the Caddy they have announced a stretched Ford Expedition and an updated 2003 Lincoln limousine. Another stretch is the current Mercedes-Benz 600. In 1:24 scale a new 1925 Ford Tourer has been announced, also available in Fire Chief version. Another interesting choice for this year is the 1957 Cadillac Brougham.
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